By Swapneel Deshpande 21 hours ago
With the 2025 IPL season fast approaching, Gujarat Titans are gearing up for another strong campaign under the leadership of Shubman Gill. With a balanced blend of explosive batters, all-rounders, and a potent bowling attack, the team is well-positioned for a successful season. Here’s a slightly modified and varied first XI prediction based on a mix of experience and youth
The young captain has been exceptional since joining Gujarat Titans and will continue to be the key figure at the top. His solid technique and ability to anchor the innings make him a perfect leader for the team. As the captain, Gill will need to lead from the front and set a strong foundation for the Titans.
The explosive English wicketkeeper-batter will be a crucial part of Gujarat’s batting lineup. Known for his aggressive strokeplay, especially in the powerplay, Buttler’s ability to take on the bowlers from the get-go will give Gujarat an early advantage in matches. His international experience makes him a valuable asset in the IPL.
Sai Sudharsan has shown a lot of promise in the previous seasons. A solid top-order batter, Sudharsan brings calmness to the innings and is capable of building long partnerships. His experience in domestic cricket and ability to play anchor roles in tough conditions will make him an important figure for Gujarat this season.
Shahrukh Khan has shown glimpses of brilliance in the past with his big-hitting abilities. While his consistency in IPL hasn’t been remarkable so far, his ability to clear the boundary ropes in crunch moments makes him a vital asset in the middle order. His ability to provide the finishing touches will make him key for Gujarat’s success.
The New Zealand sensation Glenn Phillips brings aggression and versatility to the Gujarat lineup. Though he is relatively new to the IPL, his explosive batting style and ability to play all around the ground make him a strong candidate for the middle order. His recent performances for New Zealand have been exceptional, and he could be the X-factor for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2025.
Rahul Tewatia is no stranger to big moments, having pulled off some stunning finishes in past seasons. Known for his clean hitting and ability to turn the game on its head, Tewatia is a key all-rounder for Gujarat. His leg-spin can also provide vital breakthroughs in the middle overs, making him a dual threat with both bat and ball.
R. Sai Kishore will be key for Gujarat Titans on spin-friendly pitches. His left-arm spin is especially effective against right-handers, using angles and variations to control runs and pick wickets in the middle overs. On slow tracks, he can be Gujarat’s go-to bowler to break partnerships.
Washington Sundar’s role depends on the situation. Against attacking left-handers, his accurate off-spin can tie them down, especially in the powerplay. Even on flat tracks, his economical bowling and handy batting down the order give Gujarat flexibility in tight games.
The Afghanistan legend Rashid Khan continues to be a key player for Gujarat Titans. A master of his craft, Rashid’s ability to bowl in the middle and death overs, taking wickets and creating pressure, makes him one of the best T20 spinners in the world. His role as a wicket-taking option and his capability to bowl at any stage will be crucial for Gujarat’s success.
The fiery South African pacer Kagiso Rabada will lead the pace attack for Gujarat. Known for his speed and ability to pick up wickets in all phases of the game, Rabada’s aggressive bowling will complement the spin attack well. His previous IPL experience, including a Purple Cap win, will make him a central figure in Gujarat’s bowling lineup.
Mohammed Siraj has been in excellent form for both India and RCB in recent years. His ability to bowl with pace and swing in the powerplay, as well as his skills in the death overs, will make him a valuable addition to Gujarat’s bowling attack. Siraj’s experience will help provide crucial breakthroughs, particularly in the early overs when the ball is new.
11. Prasidh Krishna
The tall pacer Prasidh Krishna is known for his bounce and pace. After missing a few IPL seasons, Krishna is back and will look to replicate his 2022 form, where he was one of the top bowlers for Rajasthan Royals. His height gives him an advantage in extracting extra bounce, and his ability to bowl in the powerplay and at the death will be crucial for the Titans’ fast bowling arsenal.
Mahipal Lomror, the left-handed all-rounder, will bring balance to Gujarat’s playing XI. He can be brought in when Gujarat are batting first in place of someone like Praish Krishna, His big-hitting ability and left-arm bowling make him an asset in both the batting and bowling departments. Bought for INR 1.7 Crore, Lomror’s role will be crucial in finishing innings strongly and providing variety in the bowling attack.
Shubman Gill (C), Jos Buttler (WK), Sai Sudharsan, Shahrukh Khan, Glenn Phillips, Rahul Tewatia, Washington Sundar/Sai Kishore, Rashid Khan, Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Mahipal Lomror (Impact Player)
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