Preview: Gujarat Titans had a dream start in IPL, lifting the title in their very first season in 2022 and finishing as runners-up in 2023. However, 2024 was a disappointing season as they finished eighth. Under the captaincy of Shubman Gill, the side is looking to make a strong comeback, having retained their core player and bringing in some new players. The addition of Jos Buttler, Mohammed Siraj, and Kagiso Rabada has strengthened their squad, with Rashid Khan also in the fray. However, the over-reliance on top-order batters Gill, Buttler, and Sai Sudharsan could be a concern. On the other hand, Punjab Kings haven’t qualified for playoffs since 2014. However, a completely new squad and the appointment of Shreyas Iyer as captain and Ricky Ponting as head coach have given them fresh hope and perspective. With Iyer leading the batting lineup, along with Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, and Josh Inglis, Punjab Kings have acquired some key players. Their bowling attack, features Arshdeep Singh, Lockie Ferguson, and Yuzvendra Chahal, who could restrict Gujarat’s explosive batting order.
Indian Premier League 2025, 5th Match, GT vs PBKS
Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
Date & Time: Tuesday, March 25, 07:30 PM
Weather forecast for today in Ahmedabad
Maximum temperature: 36°C
Minimum temperature: 23°C
Wind speed: 5km/h
Chances of rain: 0%
Capacity of stadium: 132, 000
Pitch Report: The Narendra Modi Stadium is a batting paradise, often producing high-scoring encounters. With an average first-innings total of around 200, the surface has a good bounce. Pacers get early movement, but as the match progresses, spinners come into play as the pitch slows down. The stadium’s dry and hard surface makes it a balanced venue for both batters and bowlers. With clear skies in the forecast, it is expected to be a cracker of a game. However, captains might still prefer chasing, given that the pitch slows down in the second innings.
Gujarat Titans (GT): Shubman Gill (C), Jos Buttler (wk), Sai Sudharsan, Glenn Phillips, Rahul Tewatia, Washington Sundar, Rashid Khan, Mohammed Siraj, Sai Kishore, Kagiso Rabada, Prasidh Krishna.
Punjab Kings (PBKS): Prabhsimran Singh, Josh Inglis (wk), Shreyas Iyer (c), Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Shashank Singh, Nehal Wadhera, Marco Jansen, Harpreet Brar, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal.
