Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has named Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings as his early picks for the Indian Premier League 2026 title, backing both franchises to emerge as strong contenders this season.

Ganguly, widely regarded for his sharp cricketing insights, highlighted the balance and depth in the squads of Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings . He noted that both teams have shown promising signs in terms of squad composition, with a mix of experienced players and impactful young talent capable of influencing matches in high-pressure situations.

RCB, long considered one of the most popular yet underachieving teams in IPL history, appears to have found renewed consistency. Their performances in recent seasons have shown improvement in both batting stability and bowling execution, areas that previously cost them crucial matches. Ganguly’s endorsement suggests confidence in their ability to sustain momentum across a demanding tournament.

Also Read: Gujarat Titans’ Anuj Rawat Praises Shubman Gill’s Improved Captaincy Ahead Of RCB Match

Punjab Kings, on the other hand, have often struggled with inconsistency despite possessing explosive talent. However, Ganguly pointed out that the current setup looks more settled, with better clarity in roles and strategy. If they can maintain discipline and deliver consistently, PBKS could finally convert potential into a serious title challenge.

The IPL has historically been unpredictable, with multiple teams capable of going on winning streaks at any stage. Ganguly acknowledged that while RCB and PBKS stand out on paper, competition from other franchises remains intense, and adaptability will be key as the tournament progresses.

As IPL 2026 unfolds, Ganguly’s prediction adds an interesting narrative to the season, especially given that both RCB and PBKS are still chasing their maiden IPL titles. Whether his assessment proves accurate will depend on how well these teams handle pressure, injuries, and the ever-changing dynamics of T20 cricket.

Also Read: PBKS Coach James Hopes Calls First Loss Reality Check, Invokes RCB Adaptability Model