![BCCI sparks controversy [Source: JioHotstar, X]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1779816108091_RCBvsGTDistortedMap.jpg?type=hq)
BCCI sparks controversy [Source: JioHotstar, X]
The first day of IPL 2026 playoffs saw the Royal Challengers Bengaluru face the Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1 at the most scenic venue of the country in Dharamsala. Living up to the hype of the match, RCB also put on a mammoth 254-run total in the first innings after losing the toss.
However, the excitement of the Qualifier 1 soon took a controversial turn as the BCCI made a massive blunder in a special show, and the fans were left upset. They instantly tagged BCCI on social media and criticized the incident, asking harsh questions.
BCCI’s blunder leaves fans livid
The incident happened at the end of the first innings, when the BCCI organised a special spectacle for the fans at the venue. All the lights went off, and a special laser show was presented by the BCCI to celebrate the beginning of the playoffs.
At the end of the light show, things drastically went south as the IPL trophy was displayed with the Indian map on it. However, the Indian map shown at the venue was distorted, with parts of the country excluded in the direction of China and Pakistan.
Fans immediately took notice of this and vented out their frustration on Twitter (X), tagging the BCCI and broadcasters and asking them to take accountability for it.
Also Read: Virat Kohli Creates New World Record In IPL
Check the reactions below:
Will BCCI apologise for showing India's distorted map?
The second innings of the clash between the table toppers is currently still going on, as GT are looking to chase a record total to reach their third IPL final.
Just about an hour after the incident, there is no official word on the matter from the BCCI yet. However, looking at how BCCI handles the mishappenings during the IPL, it is expected that they issue an official statement on the matter.
Additionally, the fan backlash could soon be taken up by the media, who could also ask further questions on the matter.
Notably, BCCI and IPL office bearers, including the chairman, Arun Dhumal, are among the dignitaries present at the match, meaning the incident has mostly already been taken into account.
Also Read: “New GOAT Of RCB”: Fans Crown Rajat Patidar Over Virat Kohli After His Dharamshala Special
RCB well-poised to play another IPL final
Courtesy of captain Rajat Patidar’s unbeaten 93*(33) alongside good cameos from the top-3 and Krunal Pandya, the defending champions blasted the formidable GT attack for 254/5 in 20 overs.
In order to win the clash, the Titans needed to complete a record run chase in the IPL playoffs. Previously, the best second innings score in a playoff win was the Punjab Kings’ 207 against the Mumbai Indians in IPL 2025.
Unfortunately, the Shubman Gill-led unit was ripped apart by the RCB bowlers in the powerplay. At the end of 6 overs, the score read 51/5, with Rasikh Salam ending the phase with a double-wicket maiden. Jos Hazlewood got rid of the dangerous-looking Jos Buttler, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jacob Duffy picked the openers.
Follow RCB vs GT Live Updates for the latest IPL 2026 scorecard for Qualifer 1
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