IPL 2026: Bengaluru started the winning run much before RCB scored the winning runs

RCB’s title defense turned theatres, pubs and flats into mini-stadiums as Bengaluru celebrated long before the winning runs and fans packed parties across the city. Later in the night, as RCB completed their title retention chase, the celebrations only caught up to what the city had come to believe long before the winning runs were scored.While police orders banned large public screenings and roadside celebrations outside city streets, RCBians simply moved the party indoors, turning theatres, pubs and homes into their own mini-stadiums. Each goal drew a roar. Each point was applauded. And as the pursuit of the title narrowed down to a formality, celebrations gathered pace in the quarters.Screened on PVR at Forum South Bengaluru on Kanakapura Road, hundreds of fans watched the final unfold as if they were in a stadium. Abhishek R, 27, who attended with friends, said what attracted them was the collective experience. “Watching an RCB match with friends has a completely different atmosphere. We wanted a crowd atmosphere and shared excitement,” he said.For many supporters, the occasion was more than just another cricket trophy. “RCB is not just a cricket team for me, it’s pure emotion,” said Kiran Ramesh, a long-time fan from Kanakapura Road. “Winning back-to-back titles shows the attitude and consistency of this team. It’s like a win for anyone who has stayed with the franchise every season.”Pubs across the city reported full houses. With large public screenings curtailed, licensed venues have become a focal point for fans looking for a community experience. Sid Patil, owner of Toca Pub, said all reservations at his three outlets were booked well in advance. “Every time RCB plays, there is interest. But this year was different. People wanted to watch together and be part of the atmosphere,” he said.Home is where the fun isMany others preferred to celebrate from home. In Rajarajeshwari Nagar, Vasupratha KR hosted friends for a party. As the match tilted heavily in RCB’s favour, the cheers grew louder and the conversation shifted from possibilities to plans to celebrate. “We were enjoying every moment and hoping to see the team bring the cup home. Once the goals kept falling, everyone knew something special was happening,” she said.The mood online mirrored the scenes on the ground. Even before the final result was confirmed, social media platforms were flooded with congratulatory posts. Fans revived old slogans, coined new ones and shared photos wearing RCB jerseys. One user suggested that the famous slogan has now evolved from “Yes Make The Cup” up to “Sala Cup Namde follows (the cup is ours every time)’, reflecting the confidence of a fan base that has witnessed sustained success.In anticipation of large post-match gatherings, the Bengaluru Traffic Police imposed restrictions on several major flyovers and increased deployment at key locations across the city. But even traffic warnings tried to compete with the dominant conversation of the night.Bengaluru has watched the IPL with hope for years. It watched with anticipation on Sunday. And long before the final run was scored, the city knew which way the game – and the trophy – was headed.CM-elect DK Shivakumar on Sunday evening said the shifting of the IPL title clash from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad was an “injustice to thousands of RCB fans” who were deprived of the opportunity to watch the match live at home.