Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium is set to host an exciting clash between Shubman Gill’s Gujarat Titans and Riyan Parag-led Rajasthan Royals on Saturday.Both teams have played one match so far this season. While Rajasthan Royals began their campaign with a win, Gujarat Titans started on a losing note. Gill will be eager to put his side back on track, whereas Parag will look to maintain the winning momentum.Gujarat Titans lifted the IPL title in their debut season in 2022, while Rajasthan Royals won the inaugural edition in 2008 but have not tasted success since.
Players to watch for:Shubman Gill (GT) The Gujarat Titans skipper looked in good touch in the opening game against Punjab Kings, scoring 39 off 27 balls at a strike rate of 144.44. Gill will aim to convert his start into a bigger innings against Rajasthan Royals. With Sai Sudharsan alongside him at the top, all eyes will be on Gill to lead from the front in front of the home crowd.Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (RR) The young sensation has quickly become a crowd favourite. Known for his explosive strokeplay, Sooryavanshi lit up the previous game with a blistering knock against Chennai Super Kings. He already holds the record for the fastest IPL century by an Indian and, interestingly, that came against Gujarat Titans. Expectations will be high once again when he takes the field on Saturday.Prasidh Krishna (GT) Despite Gujarat Titans’ loss in their opener, Prasidh Krishna impressed with the ball, picking up three crucial wickets. He triggered a collapse by dismissing Shreyas Iyer, Shashank Singh and Marcus Stoinis, reducing Punjab Kings from 110/2 to 118/6. GT will hope for another impactful performance from the senior pacer.Jofra Archer (RR) The England pacer remains a key weapon for Rajasthan Royals, especially in the Powerplay. Archer was outstanding against Chennai Super Kings, returning figures of 2/19 in four overs, including the early wicket of Ruturaj Gaikwad. His opening spell could be crucial once again.Ravindra Jadeja (RR) Experience will be vital, and Ravindra Jadeja brings plenty of it. A complete all-rounder, Jadeja can influence the game in all three departments. In the previous match, he delivered a tight spell, picking up key wickets while maintaining control. His ability to step up in crucial moments makes him a player to watch.
