The fifth match of IPL 2025 will see Gujarat Titans (GT) take on Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, on March 25. Both teams will be eager to turn their fortunes around after missing out on the playoffs last season.
GT vs PBKS Match Preview
- Gujarat Titans (GT) had a fairytale IPL debut in 2022, winning the title and following it up with a runner-up finish in 2023. However, they endured a disappointing campaign in 2024, finishing eighth. Under the leadership of Shubman Gill, GT has strengthened its squad by acquiring Jos Buttler, Mohammed Siraj, and Kagiso Rabada. However, their batting lineup seems heavily reliant on Gill, Buttler, and Sai Sudharsan, which could be a concern.
- Punjab Kings (PBKS), on the other hand, have not made it to the playoffs since 2014. This season, they have undergone a major transformation, with Shreyas Iyer taking over the captaincy and Ricky Ponting stepping in as head coach. PBKS boasts a formidable lineup featuring Iyer, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, and Josh Inglis, while their bowling attack, led by Arshdeep Singh, Lockie Ferguson, and Yuzvendra Chahal, adds strength.
Narendra Modi Stadium Pitch Report
The pitch at Ahmedabad is known to be a high-scoring venue, with an average first-innings total of around 200. Pacers could get some assistance early on, but as the match progresses, spinners are expected to play a key role. Given the pitch conditions, captains might prefer chasing, as the surface tends to slow down in the second innings.
Head-to-Head Record
- Total Matches Played: 5
- GT Wins: 3
- PBKS Wins: 2
- Most Recent Match: April 21, 2024
GT vs PBKS Probable 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
Key Players to Watch
- Best Batter – Shubman Gill (GT):
Gill has been in stellar form in white-ball cricket and is expected to play a crucial role for Gujarat Titans. Having scored 426 runs in IPL 2024, he will look to lead from the front and deliver match-winning performances. - Best Bowler – Arshdeep Singh (PBKS):
Arshdeep was impressive last season with 19 wickets. His ability to bowl in the powerplay and at the death will be vital for PBKS against GT’s powerful batting order.
GT vs PBKS Match Prediction Scenarios
Scenario 1: Gujarat Titans win the toss and bowl first.
- PBKS Powerplay Score: 45-50
- PBKS Total: 190-200
- Match Winner: Gujarat Titans
Scenario 2: Punjab Kings win the toss and bowl first.
- GT Powerplay Score: 50-55
- GT Total: 200-210
- Match Winner: Punjab Kings
Final Prediction
Considering the home advantage, Gujarat Titans might have the upper hand, but Punjab Kings’ revamped squad under Shreyas Iyer and Ricky Ponting could pose a strong challenge. Expect a thrilling contest with both teams giving their best to register an early win in IPL 2025.
Disclaimer: This prediction is based on analysis and past performances. Please make your own informed decisions before betting or fantasy team selection.
