IGPL returns to Delhi as ‘desert rivalry’ takes centre stage
The IGPL Invitational 2026 arrives at Qutab Golf Course, featuring a high-stakes rematch between Varun Chopra and Shiv Kapur.
The Indian Golf Premier League (IGPL) makes its highly anticipated return to the capital this week, bringing a heated rivalry to the greens of the Qutab Golf Course. Following an intense showdown in the desert last week, all eyes are fixed on the upcoming IGPL Invitational 2026, where the tension between Varun Chopra and Shiv Kapur is expected to reach a fever pitch.
The Rematch: Chopra vs Kapur
The narrative driving this tournament was forged at the Al Hamra Golf Club in Ras Al Khaimah. In a dramatic turn of events last week, Varun Chopra, representing the Auro Goa Eagles, secured his maiden IGPL title. Chopra delivered a stunning final-round 4-under 68 to finish at 14-under 202, snatching the victory from the experienced Shiv Kapur by two shots.
Kapur had appeared to be in total control of the Ras Al Khaimah contest, opening with a magnificent 10-under 62—which included a hole-in-one—and holding a three-shot lead after 36 holes. However, Chopra’s relentless final-day charge shifted the momentum entirely. Now, the two titans meet again, but with a significant change in setting: Kapur will be competing in front of a home crowd as the marquee player for the RVR Delhi Blue Bulls.
A Three-Way Battle for Supremacy
While the Chopra-Kapur duel is the headline, the field is far from a two-man race. The competition is set to be an electric three-cornered contest with the inclusion of Gaganjeet Bhullar of the Vimtra Chennai Lions GC. Bhullar is a formidable force on the circuit, boasting four IGPL titles, including three wins during the inaugural 2025 season.
After a challenging week in Ras Al Khaimah where he struggled to find his rhythm, Bhullar will be hunting for silverware at Qutab. The presence of other talented players, including Karandeep Kochhar, Varun Parikh, Aman Raj, and the rising talent Veer Ganapathy, ensures that the race for individual honours and team prizes will be incredibly tight.
Franchise Fever and Home Advantage
The IGPL has successfully integrated a franchise model that adds a layer of team strategy to the individual brilliance. Last week, the Auro Goa Eagles claimed the team honours, narrowly beating out the RVR Delhi Blue Bulls. This week, the Blue Bulls will look to leverage their local identity and home-turf advantage.
The RVR Delhi Blue Bulls squad is built on a foundation of immense experience, featuring:
- Shiv Kapur: 2002 Asian Games gold medallist and four-time Asian Tour winner.
- Gaurav Ghei: Three-time Asian Tour winner.
- Chiragh Kumar: Asian Tour winner.
- Aryan Roopa Anand: Emerging young talent.
As the players descend upon Delhi, the stakes couldn't be higher. Will Kapur find redemption on home soil, will Chopra prove his desert victory was no fluke, or will the seasoned Bhullar reclaim his place at the top of the podium?