Former India and Chennai Super Kings batter Suresh Raina has thrown his support behind Royal Challengers Bengaluru as the team best placed to defend the Indian Premier League title in 2026. The Bengaluru franchise, which lifted its first IPL crown in 2025, has continued to impress in the ongoing season and currently sits second on the points table with six wins from nine matches.
Speaking on JioHotstar, Raina said he expects RCB to go all the way again, pointing to the overall balance of the side. He highlighted the way Bengaluru have been managing both phases of the game and praised Rajat Patidar’s leadership as a key factor in their performances.
“I feel RCB can defend their title. The way they are playing, and the way their bowling unit is operating, with captain Rajat Patidar leading from the front, has been impressive. It is not just about putting up big totals in the 240–250 range; everyone in the batting group knows what their role is,” Raina said.
Raina also named Rajasthan Royals as another serious contender for the current IPL campaign. He suggested that the Royals’ blend of youth and impact from established performers has made their cricket enjoyable to watch, while stressing that their ability to win matches is backed by real contributions across departments.
He specifically cited Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Riyan Parag, and said that performances from Jofra Archer and Ravi Bishnoi have further strengthened Rajasthan’s case. The Royals are currently fourth in the IPL 2026 points standings, having won six of their 10 matches so far.
“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,” Raina added.
While acknowledging the Gujarat Titans as well, Raina pointed to the form of Rashid Khan and the batting output of skipper Shubman Gill. Gujarat are fifth on the IPL 2026 table with six wins from 10 games, and Raina noted that the Titans appear to be peaking at the right moment.
“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 concluded.
