Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi caught attention on social media with a light-hearted post welcoming cricket fans to the state for the Gujarat Titans vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru final match. Sanghavi humorously cautioned visitors about the irresistible local food and the likelihood of developing a fondness for Gujarati hospitality and Garba dance celebrations during the IPL final.
The post quickly gained popularity online as thousands of fans flocked to Ahmedabad for the IPL 2026 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium, known as the world’s largest cricket venue that has previously hosted IPL title matches. The humorous message came amidst the anticipation surrounding a final featuring two recent IPL champions.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the defending champions, are aiming for a back-to-back title win after their victorious season last year, while Gujarat Titans are vying for their second IPL crown following their 2022 triumph. The final, held in Ahmedabad on May 31, was granted to the city by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) as the host for the championship match this season.
Both teams entered the final with strong performances. Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured a direct spot in the final through Qualifier 1 and arrived in Ahmedabad early, whereas Gujarat Titans faced a disrupted schedule due to stormy weather after their Qualifier 2 win, leaving them with limited time to prepare.
Experts view the match as evenly poised, with former Indian opener Virender Sehwag describing it as a “straight 50-50” encounter despite Gujarat’s home advantage. Weather conditions were a concern, with forecasts predicting rain and thunderstorms in Ahmedabad, potentially affecting the game.
In case of rain interruptions, tournament rules allow for a reserve day, and if no result is possible over both days, Gujarat Titans would be declared champions due to their higher standing in the league. Sanghavi’s post, infused with humor and references to Gujarat’s food and culture, added a light touch to the final’s build-up, welcoming fans to the season’s grand finale.
