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The Gujarat Titans (GT) are set to take on the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the fifth match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Tuesday, March 25. Both teams struggled in the previous season, finishing eighth and ninth, respectively, missing out on a playoff spot. As the league enters its 18th edition, both GT and PBKS will aim to turn their fortunes around.
GT had a fairytale start in the IPL, winning the title in their debut season in 2022 and finishing as runners-up in 2023. However, their 2024 campaign was underwhelming, as they ended up eighth on the points table. Under the leadership of Shubman Gill, the Titans have retained their core squad while adding key players like Jos Buttler, Mohammed Siraj, and Kagiso Rabada. With Rashid Khan also in the mix, GT boasts a strong lineup, but their reliance on top-order batters like Gill, Buttler, and Sai Sudharsan could be a concern.
On the other hand, PBKS have failed to qualify for the playoffs since 2014. However, the franchise has undergone significant changes, appointing Shreyas Iyer as captain and Ricky Ponting as head coach. Their batting lineup now features Iyer alongside Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, and Josh Inglis. The bowling department is also well-equipped with Arshdeep Singh, Lockie Ferguson, and Yuzvendra Chahal, who could pose a challenge to GT’s explosive batting order.
GT vs PBKS Match Details
- Match: Gujarat Titans vs Punjab Kings, Match 5, IPL 2025
- Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
- Date & Time: Tuesday, March 25, 2025, 7:30 PM (IST)
- Live Broadcast & Streaming: Sports18/Star Sports Network, JioHotstar (app & website)
Narendra Modi Stadium Pitch Report The Narendra Modi Stadium is known for its batting-friendly pitch, often producing high-scoring matches. The average first-innings total here is around 200, with good bounce favoring batters. While pacers may get early movement, spinners come into play as the pitch slows down. With clear skies expected, it promises to be an exciting contest. Captains may prefer chasing due to the pitch conditions in the second innings.
GT vs PBKS Head-to-Head Record
- Total Matches Played: 5
- GT Wins: 3
- PBKS Wins: 2
- First Match: April 8, 2022
- Most Recent Match: April 21, 2024
GT vs PBKS Predicted Playing XIs
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
Impact Player: M Shahrukh Khan
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
Impact Player: Vijaykumar Vyshak
GT vs PBKS Key Players to Watch
Probable Best Batter: Shubman Gill
GT skipper Shubman Gill will be crucial for his team’s success. Last season, he scored 426 runs at a strike rate of 147.40. Given his recent form for India in white-ball cricket, he will be expected to anchor the innings and help GT put up a competitive total. If Gill delivers, he could be a contender for the Orange Cap once again.
Probable Best Bowler: Arshdeep Singh
PBKS pacer Arshdeep Singh was impressive last season, claiming 19 wickets. The left-arm quick will look to extract movement on the Ahmedabad track and make an impact in both the powerplay and death overs. His ability to break partnerships early will be crucial for Punjab’s success.
GT vs PBKS Match Prediction
Scenario 1:
- GT wins the toss and bowls first
- PBKS Powerplay Score: 45-50
- PBKS Total Score: 190-200
- GT wins the match
Scenario 2:
- PBKS wins the toss and bowls first
- GT Powerplay Score: 50-55
- GT Total Score: 200-210
- PBKS wins the match
(Source: Crictracker)
With both teams eager to start their IPL 2025 campaign on a winning note, this match promises to be an exciting battle between two revamped squads. The team bowling first may have an advantage given the conditions at Narendra Modi Stadium.
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