Suresh Raina, the former India and Chennai Super Kings cricketer, has expressed his confidence in the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to successfully defend their title in the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL). RCB, who clinched their first IPL title in 2025, is currently positioned second on the points table with six wins out of nine matches. Raina praised the team's balanced performance and effective captaincy from Rajat Patidar. He also highlighted the Rajasthan Royals (RR) as potential winners, noting their exciting play and young talent, including Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and contributions from Jofra Archer. RR is currently fourth on the points table with six wins in ten matches. Raina acknowledged the Gujarat Titans as strong contenders, particularly due to the form of spinner Rashid Khan and captain Shubman Gill, but still favors RCB as the frontrunner for the title.