📍 Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad | 📅 April 9, 2025
The IPL caravan rolls into Ahmedabad for a high-octane clash between Gujarat Titans (GT) and Rajasthan Royals (RR), two sides with contrasting IPL histories but equally potent rosters. As Jos Buttler gears up to face his former team for the first time, and Rashid Khan looks to rediscover his Midas touch, fans can expect a riveting contest under the lights at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
Contents
🟠 Team Overview
Gujarat Titans come into this fixture with their tails up, riding a wave of three consecutive victories. Shubman Gill has led the side confidently, and their batting core of Sudharsan, Buttler, and Rutherford has clicked beautifully. The bowling unit, spearheaded by Siraj and Rashid, continues to be a tough nut to crack, even with the absence of Kagiso Rabada.
Rajasthan Royals, meanwhile, have shrugged off an early hiccup with two back-to-back wins. The return of Sanju Samson as captain has re-energized the side, while Jaiswal’s consistency at the top has laid solid foundations. Their strength lies in a versatile bowling attack that includes express pace and crafty spin.
🤝 Head-to-Head Record
GT and RR have faced off six times, with Gujarat dominating the rivalry with five wins, including a memorable victory in the IPL 2022 final. Rajasthan will be looking to break this trend and even the scales in Ahmedabad.
❓ The Big Question: Is Rashid Khan Still a Force in the IPL?
It’s a rare sight to see Rashid Khan under scrutiny, but numbers from the last two seasons have raised eyebrows—11 wickets in 16 games, an average of 46.36, and an economy rate nearing 9. But true champions rise under pressure. Rashid looked sharp against Sunrisers recently and has favorable match-ups—two dismissals each of Parag and Hetmyer—that could turn the tide in his favor. Tonight might just be the night he reminds the league of his enduring quality.
🏟️ Pitch and Weather Conditions
The Narendra Modi Stadium offers multiple types of surfaces—black soil (slower, lower) and red soil (pacy and bouncy). But regardless of the pitch, runs have flowed this season, with an average scoring rate of 9.76 runs per over, making this a batter-friendly venue.
The weather will be clear with minimal wind, but dew is expected later in the evening, which means the toss could play a big role—teams will likely choose to chase.
📉 Form Guide
Gujarat Titans – ✅ ✅ ✅
Rajasthan Royals – ✅ ✅ ❌
GT have found a winning rhythm, while RR are picking up pace after a bumpy start.
🌟 Players to Watch
Gujarat Titans
Jos Buttler – The former Royals stalwart has 3000+ IPL runs for RR. Facing his old team adds a juicy subplot.
Mohammed Siraj – Bowling with fire in the powerplay, clocking 140+ kph regularly.
Sherfane Rutherford – Promoted in the batting order and flourishing: Avg 64.5, SR 176.71.
Rajasthan Royals
Jofra Archer – Back to his best, touching 150 kph and swinging it late.
Sanju Samson – Leadership has brought composure; a key player against GT’s spin attack.
Wanindu Hasaranga – Effective in the middle overs, controlling run flow and striking crucial blows.
📊 Key Stats
GT’s death overs run rate: 13.31 RPO – second-best this season.
RR’s spinners: 11 wickets – only CSK spinners have taken more.
Siraj vs Samson (IPL): 3 dismissals in 31 balls.
Buttler vs Archer in T20s: 89 runs in 47 balls, 2 dismissals.
Rashid vs Hetmyer (T20s): 6 dismissals in 63 balls.
📋 Likely XIs
Gujarat Titans
Shubman Gill (c), B Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler (wk), Sherfane Rutherford, Shahrukh Khan, Rahul Tewatia, Arshad Khan / Washington Sundar, Rashid Khan, R Sai Kishore, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Ishant Sharma (Impact Sub)
Rajasthan Royals
Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson (c & wk), Riyan Parag, Nitish Rana, Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, Wanindu Hasaranga, Jofra Archer, Maheesh Theekshana, Kumar Kartikeya / Shubham Dubey, Yudhvir Singh / Tushar Deshpande, Sandeep Sharma (Impact Sub)
🔮 Match Prediction
This match may come down to who handles the pressure better in the final overs. Gujarat Titans have been clinical in chases and carry better momentum, but Rajasthan Royals have the bowling arsenal to disrupt that rhythm. The toss will be crucial given the dew factor.
Prediction: Gujarat Titans to edge it—especially if they chase.
✅ Conclusion
With revenge, loyalty, and legacy all wrapped into one fixture, tonight’s clash in Ahmedabad is more than just points—it’s a litmus test for strategy, star power, and self-belief. Whether it’s Rashid’s redemption, Archer’s aggression, or Buttler’s bittersweet reunion, the 23rd match of IPL 2025 promises pure box-office cricket.
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