IPL 2026: Gujarat Titans' pace power meets middle-order worry in title chase
Gujarat Titans, led by Shubman Gill, aim for a second IPL title in 2026. Strengths include a potent pace attack with Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj, and Prasidh Krishna, while middle-order uncertainty and Rashid Khan's form raise concerns
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Gujarat Titans will be looking for their second title in IPL 2026. Under the captaincy of Shubman Gill, the team's pace attack looks quite strong this time. However, Gujarat's middle order could certainly be a cause for concern. Captain Shubman Gill and Sai Sudarshan will once again be seen opening the innings for Gujarat. Both of them had excellent performances last season. Meanwhile, the team will be expecting a strong performance from Jos Buttler in IPL 2026. However, Buttler's recent form has been poor. Buttler struggled for runs in the T20 World Cup 2026. Sherfane Rutherford's departure has also left the number four position vacant.
Gujarat acquired Glenn Phillips and Tom Banton at the auction. However, neither team's record in the IPL has been particularly impressive. Phillips did perform well in the 2026 T20 World Cup. The team's middle order lacks a reliable batsman to handle a crumbling innings. The team has two good finishers in Shahrukh Khan and Rahul Tewatia in the lower order. Furthermore, the arrival of Jason Holder has improved the team's balance. Holder can make significant contributions with both bat and ball.
Gujarat's biggest strength this season could be their fast bowling. The team boasts powerful bowlers in Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, and Ishant Sharma. Krishna was the leading wicket-taker in IPL 2025. Siraj could prove to be a trump card for the team in the upcoming season. Luke Wood and young Indian fast bowler Ashok Sharma are also good options. However, Rashid Khan's form was also poor last season. Rashid's continued form will be crucial for Gujarat.