Gujarat Titans Dominate Royal Challengers Bengaluru with an 8-Wicket Win in IPL 2025

M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru – April 2, 2025:
In a stellar display of bowling and batting, Gujarat Titans (GT) handed Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) their first defeat of the IPL 2025 season, securing an emphatic 8-wicket victory at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Mohammed Siraj's remarkable 3/19 set the stage for GT, while Jos Buttler's explosive unbeaten 73 ensured a comfortable chase.

Siraj's Spell Wrecks RCB's Top Order

Winning the toss, RCB opted to bat first on their home ground. However, their innings stumbled early, courtesy of Mohammed Siraj's incisive bowling. Siraj, returning to his former home ground, showcased his prowess by dismissing key RCB batsmen, including the prized wicket of Virat Kohli, who was caught in the deep for 7. Siraj's figures of 3/19 were instrumental in restricting RCB to a modest total. 

Reflecting on his performance, Siraj expressed mixed emotions about playing against his former team but emphasized his commitment to delivering for Gujarat Titans. "It was emotional because I played for seven years here," Siraj noted. "There was some nervousness... but the moment I got the ball in my hand, it was full-on intensity." 

RCB's Middle Order Attempts Recovery

Despite the early setbacks, RCB's middle order, led by Liam Livingstone, attempted to stabilize the innings. Livingstone's resilient 54, complemented by Tim David's quickfire 32 off 18 balls, provided some momentum. However, consistent pressure from GT's bowlers, including effective spells from Arshad Khan and Sai Kishore, limited RCB to a total of 169/8 in their allotted 20 overs. 

Buttler's Blazing Knock Seals the Chase

Chasing 170, Gujarat Titans' innings was anchored by Jos Buttler's scintillating performance. Buttler, who had recently stepped down from England's white-ball captaincy, appeared rejuvenated and in prime form. His unbeaten 73 off 39 balls, featuring aggressive strokes and strategic placements, propelled GT to their target with 13 balls to spare. 

"I was trying to play with lots of freedom, lots of intent," Buttler remarked post-match. "I had a few months of pretty unenjoyable cricket, so trying to make sure I'm out there giving my best, and obviously a new team, new franchise, and excited to be here." 

Strategic Partnerships and Clinical Finish

Buttler's innings was well-supported by Sai Sudharsan, who contributed a composed 49, and Sherfane Rutherford's unbeaten 30. The partnerships ensured that GT maintained a steady run rate throughout the chase, culminating in a comprehensive victory achieved in just 17.3 overs. 

Post-Match Reactions

Shubman Gill, Gujarat Titans' captain, lauded the team's performance: "The way we contained RCB to 170 in their innings on this pitch was commendable. At times it plays like a 250-run wicket, but today there was some help for the bowlers. We ensured during that phase that no wickets were lost, which made the chase easier."

Rajat Patidar, RCB's captain, acknowledged the need for improvement: "The way Jitesh, Liam, and Tim David batted, it was a positive for us. We're confident about the batting line-up; they're showing some positive intent, which is very good for us."

Match Summary

  • Royal Challengers Bengaluru: 169/8 in 20 overs (Liam Livingstone 54, Tim David 32; Mohammed Siraj 3/19)

  • Gujarat Titans: 170/2 in 17.3 overs (Jos Buttler 73*, Sai Sudharsan 49; Bhuvneshwar Kumar 1/28)

  • Result: Gujarat Titans won by 8 wickets

  • Player of the Match: Mohammed Siraj

Key Takeaways

  • Siraj's Impactful Bowling: Mohammed Siraj's return to M. Chinnaswamy Stadium was marked by a match-winning spell, highlighting his adaptability and skill.

  • Buttler's Resurgence: Freed from international captaincy duties, Jos Buttler's form suggests a significant boost for Gujarat Titans' batting lineup.

  • RCB's First Loss: The defeat marks RCB's first in the season, indicating areas needing attention, particularly in their top-order stability.

Looking Ahead

Gujarat Titans will aim to build on this momentum in their upcoming fixtures, while Royal Challengers Bengaluru will need to reassess and strategize to return to winning ways in the competitive landscape of IPL 2025.

For detailed match statistics and further updates, refer to the official IPL website.