Archan Mehta
The IPL 2026 season is finally over, and it was a tournament where smart planning and teamwork often mattered more than big reputations. While many stars delivered memorable performances, selecting a Team of the Tournament is not just about picking the highest run-scorers and wicket-takers. The goal is to build a balanced XI that could realistically win an IPL final on any pitch and in any situation.
Leading this side is an opening pair built on contrast.
At one end is Virat Kohli, who played a key role in Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s title-winning campaign. Kohli provided stability at the top, controlled chases, and ensured RCB rarely lost their way under pressure. At the other end is Rajasthan Royals sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, the breakout star of IPL 2026. With 776 runs, Vaibhav was the most destructive batter of the season. While Kohli played the role of the calm anchor, Vaibhav attacked from ball one, giving the side the perfect “good cop, bad cop” opening combination.
The top order is completed by Sunrisers Hyderabad’s Ishan Kishan at number three. His left-handed batting adds variety to the lineup and forces bowlers to constantly adjust their plans. Kishan also keeps wicket, allowing Heinrich Klaasen to focus entirely on batting.
Klaasen takes his place at number four after another outstanding season. Few batters in world cricket are as dangerous in the middle overs, and his ability to dominate both spin and pace made him one of the most feared players of the tournament. At number five is Rajat Patidar, who captains this XI after leading RCB to their first IPL title. Patidar combined calm leadership with crucial runs throughout the season and consistently delivered in pressure situations.
The strength of this side lies in its all-round depth.
At number six is Gujarat Titans’ Jason Holder, one of the most valuable all-rounders of the season. Holder provided control with the ball, chipped in with important wickets, and added useful runs down the order. His presence gives the team balance and flexibility.
Joining him are two proven match-winners. Sunil Narine remains one of the smartest T20 cricketers in the world. Whether with bat or ball, he continues to find ways to influence games. Alongside him is Krunal Pandya, whose left-arm spin, fielding, and lower-order batting played a major role in RCB’s championship-winning season.
The bowling attack is built around pressure and consistency.
Purple Cap winner Kagiso Rabada leads the pace attack after another exceptional season. He picked up wickets throughout the innings and repeatedly delivered when Gujarat Titans needed breakthroughs.
Alongside him is Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who enjoyed one of the best seasons of his IPL career. His 28 wickets were crucial to RCB’s success, and his ability to bowl effectively both with the new ball and at the death made him one of the most impactful bowlers in the tournament.
The final bowling spot goes to Mohammed Siraj. While some may focus on wicket tallies, Siraj’s value came through relentless pressure. He bowled a tournament-leading 172 dot balls while also taking 19 wickets for Gujarat Titans. Time and again, he restricted scoring in the powerplay and forced batters into mistakes. His season was a reminder that T20 cricket is not only about taking wickets but also about controlling games.
The final piece of this team is the Impact Player. When batting first, Abhishek Sharma can replace Siraj, giving the side even more firepower. With Abhishek added to the batting order, the lineup becomes deeper and more dangerous. When defending a target, Siraj returns to strengthen an already formidable bowling attack.
This Team of the Tournament is not simply a collection of star names. It is a balanced, well-structured XI featuring explosive batting, quality all-rounders, and a bowling attack capable of succeeding in any conditions. Much like RCB’s title-winning campaign, it is a side built on balance, clarity of roles, and the ability to perform under pressure.
Archan Mehta is a writer dedicated to telling compelling stories about athletes, teams, and the world of cricket
