Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Gujarat Titans Preview & Tips - RCB to defend IPL crown with grand final win over GT

Gujarat Titans have revenge at the forefront of their mind as they look to make amends for a 92-run loss to their opponents in the Qualifier. 

In the Qualifier, they humiliated Gujarat Titans in one of the most one-sided meetings in recent memory. In that match, RCB surged to 254/5 in their 20 overs as their batting line up clicked into gear. With the ball, RCB took advantage of the batting conditions worsening as they skittled their opponents for just 162. 

The key in this match will be nullifying GT's top three. In GT's clash with Rajasthan Royals, Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan starred with the bat while Jos Buttler was still there at the end of the match. If RCB can get at GT's three key batters then they will feel they will be in the ascendancy. 

After storming to victory in their last clash mere days ago, I am backing RCB to secure the trophy. The extra days away from the middle will be key, and I predict this will be vital as the reigning champions secure the trophy. 

Against RR, GT were up against it as the former put on 214/6 in their 20 overs. However, despite boasting a number of strong bowling options, none could remove Sai Sudharsan (58 from 32) and Shubman Gill (104 from 53) cheaply. The pair once again showcased their incredible ability to score runs, while Jos Buttler was unbeaten on nine as GT secured a seven-wicket win. 

Against RCB, the top three have to fire. All three struggled in the Qualifier and this saw GT slump to a big defeat. Can Gill do it all over again after his century? Can Sudharsan avoid hitting his own wicket for the third consecutive game? Can Buttler showcase his world class ability on the biggest stage? If the three perform then they are tough to beat, but they face one of the best bowling attacks in the game this week.

While I predict a tighter game than their Qualifier, I am not backing GT to secure the trophy as they slump to a heartbreaking loss.