At a glance:
- Suresh Raina opines RCB to defend their IPL trophy
- RCB holds the third spot in the points table
- Suresh Raina backs Rajasthan Royals and Gujarat Titans as top contenders to win IPL 2026
Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star player Suresh Raina firmly supports the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to retain their Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy in the ongoing season. He also praised the team for playing good cricket so far. After a long wait of 18 years, the Bengaluru-based team finally got its hands on the IPL trophy.
Bengaluru defeated the Punjab Kings in the final at Ahmedabad to win their first trophy in the history of the tournament. So far, the team is in great form as they aim to defend the title, becoming the third team to achieve the feat.
Currently, RCB have played nine games, won six and lost three. With twelve points in nine matches, the team is placed in third spot in IPL 2026.
Suresh Raina stated on JioHotstar that he feels the Royal Challengers Bengaluru have the best chance of defending their IPL championship, citing their balanced team effort, clear positions in the batting order, and good captaincy from Rajat Patidar.
“I feel RCB can defend their title. The way they are playing, and how their bowling unit is operating, with captain Rajat Patidar leading from the front, has been impressive.”
Raina emphasised that RCB’s strength is not only in scoring big totals, but also in their attacking batting style.
It is not just about scoring big 240-250 totals; everyone in the batting unit understands their roles,” he said.
Also Read: Riyan Parag: The Man to Return Rajasthan Royals to Former Glory?
Suresh Rania thinks Rajasthan Royals Can End Their Trophy Drought
He added that the Rajasthan Royals (RR) also have a good chance to win the IPL trophy. The team was the inaugural champions of the tournament. Since 2008, they have failed to win a second title. However, they came a few times but failed to cross the last huddle.
But this season, Riyan Parag has quality players like Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Jofra Archer, and Ravi Bishnoi at his disposal, and the way RR have played has made them strong contenders to lift the trophy. With 12 points from 10 matches, the side currently sits fourth in the points table.
“After them, I feel Rajasthan Royals are doing a few things right, 18 years after their first title. You start with their fearless opener, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Jofra Archer with the new ball, Ravi Bishnoi in the middle, and Riyan Parag leading the side. It is a young team, but they are playing a very watchable brand of cricket,” said Raina.
Suresh Raina praises Shubman Gill
Raina also acknowledged the Gujarat Titans, who are sixth in the points table with six victories from ten games, as formidable challengers. He praised spinner Rashid Khan’s recent success and skipper Shubman Gill’s increased strike rate, but insisted that RCB remain the favourites.
“Then there are also the Gujarat Titans, who are peaking at the right time. Rashid Khan has had a couple of good games, and Shubman Gill is playing with a higher strike rate. But I feel RCB has the biggest chance,” Raina said.
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