Cricholic
GT vs RR is expected to be a thriller as two power-packed sides clash at the majestic Narendra Modi Stadium. Not only is this a crucial game in the IPL 2025 context, but it also offers Rajasthan Royals a chance to rewrite the narrative against a dominant Gujarat Titans side.
The pitch, the dew, and the pressure — all combine to create the perfect setting for an unpredictable contest. According to RR bowling coach Shane Bond, playing at this venue is like experiencing all four seasons in a single T20 game — chaotic, fast-changing, and emotionally intense.
GT vs RR: What History Says
Historically, GT vs RR hasn’t been a happy rivalry for Rajasthan Royals. GT lead the head-to-head tally 5-1, although RR’s lone win came at this very ground in 2023. Hence, the Royals will look to channel that performance as motivation.
Moreover, the stadium’s conditions often level the playing field. Dew can make defending tough, yet teams have managed to defend totals by executing their plans precisely — as Punjab Kings demonstrated in the season opener.
Gujarat Titans: Balanced and in Form
In GT vs RR games, Titans have consistently shown why they’re one of the most disciplined units. Led by Shubman Gill, their top order has fired consistently. Furthermore, Sai Sudharsan and Jos Buttler have provided the kind of firepower that puts early pressure on the opposition.
Their bowling has also been sharp. Mohammed Siraj, in particular, has been ruthless in the Powerplay. As a result, GT have restricted teams to under 180 in three out of four games this season — a remarkable stat in such a high-scoring tournament.
Although Kagiso Rabada remains unavailable, the Titans’ depth has ensured that their attack remains threatening. Additionally, spinners like Rashid Khan and R Sai Kishore have added variety and control in the middle overs.
Rajasthan Royals: Potent Bowling, Inconsistent Batting
On the other side of the GT vs RR spectrum, Rajasthan Royals have also impressed with the ball. Jofra Archer has led from the front, while Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana have maintained pressure in the middle overs with clever variations.
However, their batting is yet to click fully. Although Yashasvi Jaiswal’s 67 in the last game was promising, both he and Sanju Samson need to find form consistently. If that happens, RR will become a serious threat.
In addition, the role of Shimron Hetmyer during the final overs will be vital. Facing bowlers like Rashid Khan, R Sai Kishore, and the in-form Prasidh Krishna won’t be easy, especially under pressure. Nevertheless, Hetmyer’s experience could turn the tide.
Match Info: GT vs RR at a Glance
📍 Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
📅 Date: Wednesday, April 9
🕢 Time: 7:30 PM IST
A black-soil pitch — known to be slower and tricky for strokeplay — is expected. Therefore, a full-blown run-fest might not be on the cards. However, a first-innings total of 190–200 could still be very competitive, especially if dew is managed well.
Team Watch: GT vs RR Key Players and Strategy
🟦 Gujarat Titans
- Unavailable: Kagiso Rabada (personal reasons)
- Focus Areas: Dominating early overs, using spin smartly through the middle
Probable XII:
Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill (c), Jos Buttler (wk), Shahrukh Khan, Rahul Tewatia, Washington Sundar, Rashid Khan, R Sai Kishore, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Ishant Sharma, Sherfane Rutherford
Notably, GT’s top three all average over 50 in Ahmedabad this season, with strike rates well over 150. As such, RR will need a strong start with the ball to contain them.
🟨 Rajasthan Royals
- Squad Status: Fully fit
- Key Match-Ups: Samson vs Siraj, Hetmyer vs Rashid
Probable XII:
Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson (c & wk), Nitish Rana, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, Wanindu Hasaranga, Jofra Archer, Maheesh Theekshana, Yudhvir Singh Charak, Sandeep Sharma, Tushar Deshpande/Kumar Kartikeya
Archer with the new ball has added an edge to RR’s bowling. Additionally, Theekshana’s tight lines will be essential to stop GT’s middle-order acceleration.
GT vs RR: Stats That Matter
- R Sai Kishore has 8 wickets this season at an economy of 7.6, while Rashid Khan has only 1 wicket with an economy of 10.21
- Mohammed Siraj leads the Powerplay wicket charts with 6, including big names like Rohit and Salt
- GT seamers have picked up 8 Powerplay wickets — the most this season
- Jos Buttler is RR’s second-highest run-getter in IPL history — despite now playing for GT
What They Said: Insights from Both Camps
🗣️ Washington Sundar (GT):
“We’re extremely clear in our bowling plans, regardless of the venue or the opposition. That clarity has been key to our success.”
🗣️ Shane Bond (RR):
“Giving Jofra the new ball has been a game-changer. His bounce and movement give us early control, which sets the tone for the rest of the innings.”
✅ Final Thoughts: GT vs RR Could Be IPL 2025’s Defining Match
GT vs RR is not just another fixture — it’s a test of strategy, adaptability, and execution. Both teams have the talent, but handling the conditions under pressure will be the true decider.
If the Royals can fire with the bat and support their bowlers, another upset in Ahmedabad is very possible. However, the Titans are not easy to beat — especially at home.
