Shubman Gill-led Gujarat Titans will kick off their IPL 2025 campaign against Punjab Kings on Tuesday at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. As they step into the 18th edition of the tournament, Gujarat Titans boast a well-balanced squad. Therefore, head coach Ashish Nehra and captain Gill have several choices, making team selection challenging.
Gujarat’s Solid Batting Order
To begin with, Gujarat has excellent squad depth. However, finalizing the playing XI is tricky. The top order, though, is an easy pick—Jos Buttler, Shubman Gill, and Sai Sudharsan will take the first three spots. Since they have an explosive batting style, they can attack from the start, while the middle and lower order provide stability.
Meanwhile, Gujarat will miss David Miller in the middle order. Nevertheless, they have found a strong replacement in Glenn Phillips. The New Zealand all-rounder is in superb form and will aim to carry forward his momentum from the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.
Middle and Lower Order Firepower
Moreover, Gujarat’s middle and lower order look dangerous. Washington Sundar, Shahrukh Khan, Rahul Tewatia, and Rashid Khan bring both experience and firepower. Notably, Rahul Tewatia has played match-winning knocks for Gujarat before. In fact, he will be eager to perform well against Punjab Kings, a team he has excelled against in the past.
On the bowling front, Gujarat has a strong pace attack. Both Kagiso Rabada and Mohammed Siraj offer experience and precision. Additionally, the franchise might bring in Prasidh Krishna as an impact substitute, depending on the situation. If Gujarat bowls second, Prasidh could come in later. Otherwise, he may start, with Sai Sudharsan joining the XI as an impact sub.
At the same time, Gujarat cannot overlook Sai Kishore. He is one of the best spinners in the country. Since the team used the RTM card to retain him, he is likely to start.
Punjab Kings’ Line-Up and Strategy
On the other hand, Punjab Kings also have a formidable squad. In fact, captain Shreyas Iyer has already confirmed that he will bat at No.3. Meanwhile, Prabhsimran Singh and Josh Inglis are expected to open the innings.
Furthermore, Punjab’s middle and lower order pack a punch. With Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Shashank Singh, and Marco Jansen in the mix, they have enough firepower to take control of any game. Thus, it will be interesting to see the brand of cricket Punjab Kings adopt under Shreyas Iyer and coach Ricky Ponting.
In terms of bowling, Punjab has variety. Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Vijaykumar Vyshak are likely to lead their attack.
Given the strengths of both teams, an exciting battle is on the cards.
Predicted Playing XIs
Gujarat Titans: Shubman Gill (C), Jos Buttler, Sai Sudharsan, Glenn Phillips, Washington Sundar, Shahrukh Khan, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Sai Kishore, Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj.
Punjab Kings: Prabhsimran Singh, Josh Inglis, Shreyas Iyer (C), Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Shashank Singh, Harpreet Brar, Marco Jansen, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal, Vijaykumar Vyshak.
