The Gujarat Titans (GT) prepare to face the Mumbai Indians (MI) in the IPL 2025 Eliminator on May 30 in Mullanpur.
Ahead of the Eliminator, the team faces several pressing challenges that could impact their title hopes.
Despite a strong start to the season and early qualification for the playoffs, GT’s recent form and key weaknesses have raised concerns among experts and fans alike.
Here are the three biggest concerns for GT heading into this do-or-die match:
1. Declining Bowling Performance
One of the most significant issues for GT has been the sudden dip in their bowling form. After a dominant run early in the season, their bowling attack has conceded a staggering 664 runs in the last three matches alone, including heavy defeats to Delhi Capitals, Lucknow Super Giants, and Chennai Super Kings.
While Prasidh Krishna remains a standout performer with 23 wickets and is second on the Purple Cap list, other bowlers like Mohammad Siraj and Arshad Khan have struggled to contain runs, especially in the powerplay overs.
Former coach Tom Moody highlighted that except for Sai Kishore, who has been consistent, most bowlers are “trying to find form” at the wrong time.
This lack of penetration and control in the bowling unit puts immense pressure on the team in knockout cricket where every run and wicket counts.
2. Batting Inconsistencies Against High Totals
GT’s batting, which had been a major strength throughout the season, has shown signs of vulnerability against formidable targets in recent matches.
The team’s top order, led by Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan, has been prolific, but the middle order has occasionally faltered under pressure.
In their last two defeats, GT struggled to chase or set competitive totals, raising questions about their ability to handle high-pressure run chases in the playoffs.
Director of Cricket Vikram Solanki admitted that the batting unit “must be better” and acknowledged that the team has “come up short” at times despite continuous efforts.
With the Eliminator being a knockout game, any batting collapse could prove costly.
3. Pressure of Finishing Outside Top Two and Momentum Loss
GT’s late-season slump has cost them a direct spot in Qualifier 1, forcing them into the Eliminator, where there is no second chance.
Finishing third or fourth means one loss and elimination, increasing the pressure on the team. Their recent back-to-back defeats have dented confidence and momentum, which is critical in T20 cricket.
The team had built strong momentum earlier by winning five of six matches, but has since lost steam.
The psychological impact of losing form at the business end of the tournament could affect performance, especially against a seasoned team likethe Mumbai Indians.
The tight playoff schedule and the need to quickly adapt and recover add to the challenge.
