In the first qualifier of IPL 2026, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will take on Gujarat Titans (GT) on Tuesday. This match between the two teams will be played at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala. Let’s take a look at five players from GT who can pose a big threat to RCB in the first qualifier.
Sai Sudarshan: Sai Sudarshan’s performance in IPL 2026 has been excellent. Sudarshan has emerged as the highest run scorer this season. In 14 matches, he has scored 638 runs at a strike rate of 157. Sudarshan’s consistency with the bat has been the key this season as he has consistently scored runs for GT. If RCB wants to beat GT in the first qualifier, they will have to dismiss Sudarshan early in the innings.
Shubhman Gill: Shubhman Gill has given excellent support to Sudarshan. Gill can prove to be a big threat for RCB in the first qualifier. In 13 matches this season, the Gujarat Titans captain has scored 616 runs at a strike rate of 161. Gill’s strike rate has also improved significantly in IPL 2026. Batting alongside Sudarshan, Gill has laid the foundation for many of GT’s wins this season.
Jos Buttler: The experienced batsman of Gujarat Titans, Jos Buttler is counted among those players who are famous for their tremendous performances in big matches. In IPL 2026, wearing the GT jersey, Buttler has scored 469 runs in 14 innings at a strike rate of 155. During this period he has also scored four half-centuries. In the first qualifier, he can give a tough test to the RCB bowlers.
Kagiso Rabada: Kagiso Rabada has emerged as one of the most effective bowlers of IPL 2026. Rabada has taken 24 wickets in 14 matches and is currently the second highest wicket taker this season. In the first qualifier to be held in Dharamsala, Rabada’s combination of fast pace and swing bowling can pose a big challenge for the RCB batsmen.
Mohammed Siraj: RCB batsmen should also be wary of Gujarat Titans fast bowler Mohammed Siraj. Siraj has been in great form in the last few matches. Moreover, having been a part of the RCB team, he has a good knowledge of the weaknesses of the batsmen. Siraj has taken 17 wickets in 14 matches this season.
