New Delhi: Gujarat Titans middle-order batter Rahul Tewatia emerged as a standout performer in an otherwise disappointing outing for his team against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2026. Tewatia scored 68 runs off 43 balls, while the Titans were bowled out for 162 in their chase of a daunting target of 255 at HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala.
Tewatia’s innings not only showcased his resilience but also established a new record, as he surpassed MS Dhoni’s mark for the highest score by a player batting at No. 7 or lower in an IPL playoff match. The previous record was held by Dhoni, who had scored an unbeaten 63 runs from 45 balls during the IPL 2013 final against Mumbai Indians, despite his team’s struggle at 36 for 5 when he came to the crease.
Highest scores in IPL playoffs (batting at No.7 or lower):
- Rahul Tewatia: 68 off 43 balls vs GT in 2026
- MS Dhoni: 63* off 45 balls vs MI in 2013
- Brad Hodge: 54* off 29 balls vs SRH in 2013
- Andre Russell: 49* off 25 balls vs RR in 2018
- Carlos Brathwaite: 43* off 29 balls vs CSK in 2018
Tewatia was the only silver lining for the Titans, who faced a formidable challenge from RCB, who set a massive total of 254 for 4, driven by Rajat Patidar’s explosive unbeaten 93 off 33 balls. The Titans had never exceeded 233 runs in a match, and their highest successful chase was 205, leading to immense scoreboard pressure in a playoff setting.
When Tewatia came to bat in the sixth over, the team was already struggling at 51 for 5. With the situation dire, he focused on damage control and gaining match experience, acknowledging that opportunities to bat at length had been limited. His performance could provide a much-needed boost for both himself and the team moving into Qualifier 2, where they will face the winner of the Eliminator between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals.
Also Read: Rajat Patidar only the second captain in the 19-year history of the IPL to achieve a significant record.
