Sports

IIE DIGITAL DESK : New Delhi, May 23: The conclusion of the league-stage match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Friday, the teams for the first qualifier of Indian Premier League 2026 have officially been confirmed.

Even before the match began, Royal Challengers Bengaluru were sitting at the top of the points table, while Sunrisers Hyderabad were placed in third position. To move into the top two spots, the hosts needed to defeat RCB by a margin of 90 runs or more.

Despite posting a massive total of 255 runs on the scoreboard, Sunrisers Hyderabad managed to restrict Royal Challengers Bengaluru to just 200 runs for the loss of six wickets in the second innings. The 55-run victory proved significant in determining the playoff positions and the fate of three teams in the tournament.

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru retained their top position in the standings and will now face Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1, scheduled to be played in Dharamshala on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Sunrisers Hyderabad have secured a place in the Eliminator, which will be held in New Chandigarh on Wednesday.

The Eliminator, Sunrisers Hyderabad are set to face one among Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, or Delhi Capitals, depending on the final standings after the remaining league matches.

The latest results have intensified excitement around the IPL 2026 playoffs, with fans eagerly waiting to see which teams will secure a place in the grand final.