The stage is set for a high-voltage clash as Gujarat Titans take on Rajasthan Royals in Qualifier 2 of IPL 2026 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh on Friday. With a spot in the grand finale on the line, both teams will enter the contest knowing that one strong performance can take them one step closer to lifting the trophy.
The excitement around this match has grown massively after Rajasthan Royals produced a sensational performance in the Eliminator against Sunrisers Hyderabad. RR’s explosive young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi stole the spotlight with one of the most destructive innings ever seen in IPL history. The youngster hammered 97 runs from just 29 deliveries and came heartbreakingly close to breaking Chris Gayle’s record for the fastest century in IPL history.
Even though he missed the landmark by only three runs, Sooryavanshi still managed to rewrite the record books by surpassing Gayle’s tally for the most sixes in a single IPL season. His fearless batting completely changed the momentum of the match and powered Rajasthan Royals to a huge total close to 250 runs.
What made the innings even more impressive was the fact that SRH bowlers controlled the final overs quite well. Rajasthan managed only 36 runs in the last five overs, but Sooryavanshi’s early fireworks had already done enough damage. Gujarat Titans will now have the difficult task of finding a way to dismiss the dangerous opener early in the innings.
However, GT are not a side that can be underestimated. The Titans have one of the strongest bowling attacks in the tournament, featuring experienced names capable of changing the game in a matter of overs. Bowlers like Mohammed Siraj, Kagiso Rabada, and Rashid Khan have consistently delivered under pressure, and their battle against RR’s aggressive batting lineup could decide the outcome of the match.
At the same time, Gujarat’s batting unit has looked solid throughout the season. Captain Shubman Gill has led from the front, while Sai Sudharsan and Jos Buttler have provided stability and attacking intent at the top. The middle order, packed with all-rounders and power-hitters, gives GT the flexibility to adapt to any match situation.
For Rajasthan Royals, confidence will be sky-high after their Eliminator triumph. Alongside Sooryavanshi, players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, and Shimron Hetmyer can destroy bowling attacks on their day. RR’s bowling department has also delivered crucial performances, especially through the pace and accuracy of Jofra Archer.
Archer’s fiery spell in the previous game played a major role in putting SRH under pressure from the beginning. His ability to generate pace and movement with the new ball makes him one of RR’s biggest weapons heading into Qualifier 2.
Gujarat Titans Predicted XI
Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler, Washington Sundar, Nishant Sindhu, Jason Holder, Rashid Khan, Rahul Tewatia, Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna
Rajasthan Royals Predicted XI
Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Riyan Parag (C), Dhruv Jurel, Donovan Ferreira, Dasun Shanaka, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Nendre Burger, Brijesh Sharma, Yash Raj Punja
GT vs RR Head-to-Head Record
The rivalry between these two franchises has produced several memorable contests over the years. Out of the 10 matches played between them, Gujarat Titans have dominated with seven victories, while Rajasthan Royals have managed to win three games.
Despite GT’s superior record, knockout matches often ignore past statistics. Rajasthan’s current momentum and fearless approach make them a dangerous opponent for any side.
Pitch Report – Mullanpur Stadium
The pitch at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium has generally favored batters this season. The surface offers good bounce and carry, allowing stroke-makers to play their shots freely from the start.
Fast bowlers can still make an impact with the new ball, especially during the powerplay overs. Spinners may come into the game later as the surface slows down slightly under lights.
Given the batting firepower present in both squads, fans can expect another high-scoring encounter. A total above 200 could once again become a realistic possibility if conditions remain batting-friendly.
GT vs RR IPL 2026 Live Streaming Details
Cricket fans in India can watch the live streaming of the GT vs RR IPL 2026 Qualifier 2 match on JioHotstar. The live television broadcast will be available on the Star Sports Network channels.
With a place in the IPL 2026 final at stake, both Gujarat Titans and Rajasthan Royals are expected to bring their best to the field. Whether it is Gujarat’s balanced squad or Rajasthan’s fearless batting attack, the contest promises entertainment, drama, and unforgettable moments for cricket lovers around the world.
