Gujarat Titans did not get the ideal result against Delhi Capitals, but our spectacular bowling performance, powered by Mohammad Shami’s terrific spell with the new ball, is a positive to carry forward as we move to Jaipur next. 

Two of our last three matches against Rajasthan Royals have been nail-biters that dragged all the way down to the last few overs. A good finish from Shimron Hetmyer took them over the line the last time we met in Ahmedabad, but here’s our opportunity to square things up. 

While the focus remained on Mohammad Shami’s Player of the Match-winning performance, Mohit Sharma, Rahul Tewatia and Noor Ahmad made good contributions as well. Hardik Pandya scored a half-century and fought hard till the end, but as it turned out, it wasn’t our day.

We continue to remain on top of the table and can hold it until the end of this weekend if we can pick up a win in Jaipur. With just five matches remaining in the group stages and 12 points already in the bag, Hardik Pandya and his troops are also inching closer towards a playoff position.

Peak into the opponent’s camp

The Rajasthan Royals currently occupy the fourth spot in the points table. They have won five of their nine matches so far and have played some good cricket. The Royals were involved in high-scoring matches in their last two outings. While they registered a crucial win against Chennai Super Kings, they lost to Mumbai Indians at Wankhede in the final over of the match. 

Titan to watch out for

Noor Ahmad waited a long time for his chance and once he entered the fray, there was no looking back. He made his TATA IPL debut against Rajasthan Royals in Ahmedabad and the young leggie has shown a lot of promise in a very short period of time. He has been our most economical bowler so far this season, conceding at only 6.81 per over and also picked up eight wickets in five matches.   

Key numbers

Mohammad Shami currently holds the Purple Cap with 17 wickets taken at an exceptional average of 14.53. 

Skipper Hardik Pandya has the best economy in powerplay overs among GT bowlers (7.7). It is also the third best in the tournament so far (minimum 15 overs).

Mohit Sharma has an impressive record against RR skipper Sanju Samson, conceding just 25 runs in the 28 deliveries he bowled to him, which includes one dismissal. 

Match details

Rajasthan Royals vs Gujarat Titans, Match 48
Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur
7.30 PM