In a rare emotional outburst, Gujarat Titans skipper Shubman Gill broke his usual calm demeanor during a crucial IPL 2025 clash against Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens. The dramatic moment came in the 12th over of KKR’s 200-run chase, when Venkatesh Iyer misread a slower delivery from spinner Sai Kishore and holed out to deep square leg. What followed was an intense celebration from Gill, who pumped his fists, screamed in triumph, and sprinted to Kishore, thumping his chest in sheer exhilaration.
Gill’s reactions were uncharacteristic, as the young captain is not known for sending off opponents. However, the high stakes of this fixture against KKR brought out a different side of him. Iyer’s departure with just 14 runs off 19 deliveries was seen as a turning point, and Gill later admitted it was the moment he believed the game was sealed. “It was about closing the match, not just staying ahead. That moment meant a lot,” he explained post-match.
The Titans executed their plans flawlessly, limiting KKR to 159/8 and securing a dominant 39-run victory. With this win, GT climbed to the top of the points table with 12 points in 8 matches, moving closer to a spot in the playoffs.
Shubman Gill led from the front with a brilliant 90 off 55 balls, while his opening partner Sai Sudharsan contributed a vital 52—his fifth half-century of the season. Their 114-run opening partnership laid a solid foundation for GT’s 198/3 total. Jos Buttler’s explosive 41* off 23 balls, including eight boundaries, ensured a strong finish.
Gill and Sudharsan timed their innings expertly on a tricky surface, combining composure with well-timed aggression. The duo played a key role in ensuring GT’s commanding position throughout the game. Sudharsan brought up his fifty in 34 balls but fell shortly after, edging a short delivery from Andre Russell. Gill, aiming for a century, was dismissed in the 18th over while attempting to accelerate the innings.
Reflecting on the match, Gill said, “We don’t stress about who stays till the end. It’s always about how we can adapt to the pitch and take the game deep.”
With a strong batting display, calculated bowling, and electrifying moments like Gill’s send-off, Gujarat Titans are proving to be serious title contenders in this IPL season.
