In a thrilling encounter at Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium, the Gujarat Titans handed a significant defeat to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, clinching the match by eight wickets. The spotlight was firmly on Mohammed Siraj, who returned to his old stomping grounds with a fantastic bowling spell that included three crucial wickets.
Siraj Shines Against Former Team
Joining Gujarat Titans after his release from RCB, Siraj seemed to have a point to prove. His inspired 3/19 performance dismantled the top order of Royal Challengers. He captured the scalps of key batsmen Phil Salt, Rajat Patidar, and Liam Livingstone. Siraj’s ability to execute disciplined bowling was instrumental in restricting RCB to a score of 169/8 amidst the cheers of a home crowd rooting for his former team.
The celebrated RCB batting line-up struggled right from the start. Losing stalwarts like Virat Kohli, Salt, and Patidar in quick succession left them reeling at 42/4. It was up to Jitesh Sharma and Livingstone to resuscitate the innings, with Livingstone managing a significant 50 off 28 balls. Despite their efforts, the middle order couldn't form enduring partnerships to set a towering target.
Buttler Leads the Charge
As RCB's innings faltered, Gujarat Titans strolled into the chase with confidence. England's ace batsman Jos Buttler was the key, arduously crafting an unbeaten 73 off just 39 deliveries. With splendid support from Sai Sudharsan, who narrowly missed a half-century with 49, the Titans built a robust foundation.
Sherfane Rutherford added the finishing touches with a swift 30 from just 18 balls, ensuring that GT crossed the finish line with 13 balls to spare. Despite the initial trouble, the organized approach of GT’s batsmen highlighted their depth and strategy.
This victory saw Gujarat Titans leap to the fourth spot on the league table, a pleasing sight for their fans. Meanwhile, Royal Challengers Bengaluru found themselves slipping to third despite an impressive net run rate, demonstrating the intensity and competitiveness of IPL 2025.
The upcoming matches promise more cricketing fireworks as Gujrat Titans prepare to take on Sunrisers Hyderabad, while Royal Challengers Bengaluru will seek redemption against Mumbai Indians. This win against a formidable RCB side sets a tone of determination and skill for the Titans as they navigate the challenging IPL season.
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