Aoba Tanaka 
In a thrilling encounter against Rajasthan Royals, Gujarat Titans emerged victorious in a nail-biting finish, clinching the win off the final ball of the game. Captain Shubman Gill revealed that the team had set a target of 45 runs in the final three overs of the run chase, displaying their prowess as a formidable chasing side since their debut in the 2022 season.
Despite facing the daunting task of needing 73 runs off 30 balls and losing Gill’s wicket at a crucial juncture, Titans showcased their resilience. A remarkable 17-run over from R Ashwin provided momentum, and Rahul Tewatia and Rashid Khan orchestrated a thrilling heist in the dying moments. Khan’s stunning cameo and match-winning performance earned him the Player of the Match award.
Reflecting on his dismissal, Shubman Gill remained optimistic, emphasizing the achievable target set by the team. “Mathematically, both batsmen need to score nine-ball 22 runs,” he explained, highlighting the calculated approach adopted by the Titans.
The victory marked a significant turnaround for Titans, who had suffered defeats in their previous two matches. Despite being behind in the game, Gill expressed satisfaction with the team’s ability to close out the match, crediting Khan and Tewatia for their heroics.
Meanwhile, Kumar Sangakkara, Rajasthan Royals’ director of cricket, commended Titans for their resilient performance and focused on his team’s positives. Sangakkara acknowledged Riyan Parag’s impactful innings but remained cautious about speculating on his World Cup prospects, emphasizing the importance of staying grounded and focusing on the present.
Despite facing criticism for his performance, Sangakkara defended Ashwin, hailing him as one of the greatest spinners in the game and expressing confidence in his ability to bounce back.
The thrilling encounter showcased the competitive spirit and determination of both teams, leaving fans eagerly anticipating their future matchups in the IPL 2024 season.
