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The fifth game of IPL 2025 sees the Gujarat Titans (GT) host the Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Both teams endured disappointing campaigns last season, finishing eighth and ninth, respectively. This match offers an opportunity for both sides to kickstart their 2025 journey on a positive note. While the Titans will rely on their home advantage and revamped bowling attack, the Kings face the challenge of overcoming their historical struggles as slow starters. With Shubman Gill leading GT and Shreyas Iyer making his debut as PBKS captain, this clash promises thrilling action.
Match Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Series | IPL 2025 |
| Match Number | 5th Match |
| Venue | Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad |
| Date & Time | 25th March 2025, 7:30 PM |
Team Previews
Gujarat Titans Preview
The Titans aim to erase memories of their poor 2024 season with a strong start at home. Their batting lineup is formidable, led by explosive openers Shubman Gill and Jos Buttler. Sai Sudharsan and Shahrukh Khan provide stability in the middle order, while Glenn Phillips and Rashid Khan bring firepower in the death overs. Washington Sundar and Rahul Tewatia add depth with their all-round abilities.
Their bowling attack has been significantly strengthened. Kagiso Rabada and Mohammad Siraj are expected to deliver early breakthroughs, while Rashid Khan’s spin will be pivotal in the middle overs. Washington Sundar and Tewatia offer additional support, ensuring balance in the side.
Predicted Playing XI:
Shubman Gill (c), Jos Buttler (wk), Sai Sudharsan, Shahrukh Khan, Glenn Phillips, Rahul Tewatia, Washington Sundar, Mohammad Arshad Khan, Rashid Khan, Kagiso Rabada, Mohammad Siraj
Key Players: Shubman Gill (Batsman), Rashid Khan (All-Rounder)
Punjab Kings Preview
PBKS enters the match under new leadership with Shreyas Iyer aiming to transform their fortunes. Prabhsimran Singh and Vishnu Vinod form a promising opening pair, while Iyer and Marcus Stoinis anchor the middle order. Glenn Maxwell and Marco Jansen add explosive power in the lower order.
However, their bowling remains a concern. Arshdeep Singh and Marco Jansen will lead the pace attack, but they lack experience on challenging pitches. Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Sen must shoulder the spin responsibilities, though they may struggle against GT’s aggressive batters.
Predicted Playing XI:
Shreyas Iyer (c), Prabhsimran Singh, Vishnu Vinod (wk), Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Shashank Singh, Marco Jansen, Harpreet Brar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Sen, Arshdeep Singh
Key Players: Shreyas Iyer (Batsman), Arshdeep Singh (Bowler)
Favorite Team to Win Today
| Team | Reasons |
|---|---|
| GT | Strong batting, improved bowling, and home advantage give them the edge. |
Gujarat Titans hold the upper hand due to their balanced squad and familiarity with Ahmedabad conditions. Their explosive batting lineup, led by Gill and Buttler, can exploit PBKS’ fragile bowling attack. Rashid Khan and Kagiso Rabada provide world-class options with the ball. Meanwhile, PBKS’ reliance on their batting lineup, coupled with their historical struggles as slow starters, makes them vulnerable. Unless Maxwell and Co. deliver a miraculous performance, GT’s superior team composition makes them clear favorites.
Fantasy Team XI
| Role | Player Name | Points Potential |
|---|---|---|
| WK | Jos Buttler | High |
| BAT | Shubman Gill | Very High |
| BAT | Glenn Maxwell | Medium |
| BAT | Sai Sudharsan | High |
| ALL | Rashid Khan | Very High |
| ALL | Marcus Stoinis | High |
| BOWL | Kagiso Rabada | High |
| BOWL | Yuzvendra Chahal | Medium |
| BOWL | Mohammad Siraj | Medium |
| BOWL | Arshdeep Singh | Low |
| BOWL | Washington Sundar | High |
This balanced XI includes key performers like Shubman Gill and Jos Buttler, who are match-winners. Rashid Khan and Marcus Stoinis add all-round value, while bowlers like Kagiso Rabada and Yuzvendra Chahal ensure wicket-taking potential.
Captain & Vice-Captain Suggestions
- Captain: Shubman Gill (GT) – A consistent run-scorer and reliable opener.
- Vice-Captain: Rashid Khan (GT) – Impactful with both bat and ball.
Players to Avoid
- Harpreet Brar (PBKS): Inconsistent performances in recent matches.
- Kuldeep Sen (PBKS): Lacks experience on challenging pitches.
Probable Playing XIs
| GT | PBKS |
|---|---|
| Shubman Gill (c), Jos Buttler (wk), Sai Sudharsan, Shahrukh Khan, Glenn Phillips, Rahul Tewatia, Washington Sundar, Mohammad Arshad Khan, Rashid Khan, Kagiso Rabada, Mohammad Siraj | Shreyas Iyer (c), Prabhsimran Singh, Vishnu Vinod (wk), Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Shashank Singh, Marco Jansen, Harpreet Brar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Sen, Arshdeep Singh |
Pitch Report
The pitch at Ahmedabad is flat but two-paced, with assistance for spinners later in the game. Teams batting first should aim for a total around 180-200 , leveraging the quick outfield.
Toss Prediction
Both captains are likely to opt for bowling first , given the chasing trend at this venue.
Winner Prediction
GT is tipped to win due to their strong batting lineup and better-balanced squad.
Final Answer: Gujarat Titans
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