The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season began with 10 teams battling for supremacy, but after the completion of the league stage, only four teams remain in the race for the coveted trophy.

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are once again aiming to lift the title after a dominant campaign this season. However, Gujarat Titans, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals have also secured playoff spots, setting up an exciting finish to the tournament.

RCB Continue Impressive Run

RCB have been one of the most consistent teams in IPL 2026 and are considered among the strongest contenders for the championship. Their balanced performances with both bat and ball helped them finish among the top teams in the points table.

Despite Bengaluru’s strong form, cricket experts believe the competition remains wide open with the other three playoff teams also carrying significant momentum.

Hyderabad and Rajasthan Fight Back Strongly

Sunrisers Hyderabad managed to secure a playoff berth after an impressive performance in the second half of the tournament. Rajasthan Royals also stayed alive in the race till the final stages of the league campaign and eventually booked their place in the top four.

Both teams have shown resilience and match-winning ability under pressure, making them dangerous opponents in the knockout stage.

Why Gujarat Titans Are Being Backed to Win

Many cricket analysts believe Gujarat Titans could emerge as IPL 2026 champions, and historical statistics appear to support that prediction.

Gujarat finished second in the IPL 2026 points table, and interestingly, IPL history shows that teams finishing second after the league stage have won the title most frequently.

IPL History Favours Second-Placed Teams

Since the IPL began in 2008, the tournament has been held 18 times before the current edition. Out of those 18 seasons, the team finishing second in the points table has gone on to win the title nine times.

This means nearly 50 percent of IPL champions have come from the second spot in the standings. With Gujarat Titans occupying that position this season, many believe the statistics could once again play in their favour.

Sunrisers Hyderabad finished third in the standings, while Rajasthan Royals secured fourth place heading into the playoffs.