NEW DELHI: With IPL 2026 entering its final phase, supporters have been sharing strong opinions on how the season has played out and what they expect from the playoff stretch. A fan poll has also thrown light on the leading title contenders, the brightest emerging talent, and the wider concerns shaping conversations around the tournament.<\/p>\n
As the league phase concluded and attention turned to the knockout stage, the poll showed that predicting the champions was far from clear-cut. Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru were identified as the most likely winners, drawing the highest share of votes. Roughly 39% of respondents backed the Virat Kohli-led unit to win the trophy.<\/p>\n
RCB\u2019s top billing was backed by their league performance: they finished first on the points table, edging others with a stronger net run rate. The franchise recorded nine victories during an intense 70-match league campaign, which also produced a tight points situation at the top.<\/p>\n
They finished level on points with Gujarat Titans in second place and Sunrisers Hyderabad in third, but superior net run rate ensured RCB ended the league on top.<\/p>\n
After RCB, Gujarat Titans emerged as the next most popular pick for the title. The Shubman Gill-led side received 24% of the votes. SRH followed closely, collecting 21% support, while fourth-placed Rajasthan Royals were backed by 16% of voters.<\/p>\n
The poll\u2019s most decisive outcome came from the question on the most promising talent of IPL 2026. The response was heavily one-sided, with 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi receiving an overwhelming 89% of the votes. The Rajasthan Royals opener has quickly become one of the standout breakouts of the season, capturing attention with his performances.<\/p>\n
Prince Yadav from Lucknow Super Giants placed second, but at a considerable distance, collecting 7% of the votes. Chennai Super Kings players Anshul Kamboj and Kartik Sharma received 2% votes each.<\/p>\n
Beyond individual stars and title picks, the poll also reflected a growing concern about the balance between bat and ball. A striking 86% of fans felt IPL 2026 has become increasingly batting-friendly. That perception was linked to the season\u2019s record tally of 200-plus totals, which has continued to raise scoring levels across venues.<\/p>\n
The survey also highlighted changing viewership habits. About 43% of respondents said they watch IPL games on Smart TVs using streaming applications, while 27% preferred watching on mobile phones. Traditional cable television still accounted for 25% of viewing, with only 5% reporting they watch on computers or laptops.<\/p>\n
Another key issue raised by viewers was the increasing involvement of technology during matches. Around 54% of fans believed excessive technological interventions disrupt the momentum and flow of the game.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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