Gujarat Titans Seek Top-Two Finish in Final League Match against Chennai Super Kings
The Gujarat Titans (GT), currently leading the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 standings, face a crucial final league stage encounter today, Sunday, May 25th, as they host the eliminated Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Ahmedabad. A victory for Gujarat is essential to guarantee a top-two finish, which provides a significant advantage in the playoffs by ensuring a spot in Qualifier 1. While CSK is out of contention, they will be aiming to salvage pride and potentially disrupt GT's plans.
GT Eye Crucial Win for Top-Two Playoff Berth
Gujarat Titans, with 18 points from 13 matches, have already qualified for the playoffs. However, their top-two position is not yet secure. A loss to CSK, coupled with potential wins for Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (both on 17 points), could see GT slip and consequently play the Eliminator match. Therefore, securing a win today is paramount for Shubman Gill's side. They will be looking to bounce back from their recent defeat to Lucknow Super Giants. This match will also be the last appearance this season for GT's key overseas players Jos Buttler and Kagiso Rabada before they depart for international duties.
Chennai Plays for Pride in Final Encounters
Chennai Super Kings, languishing at the bottom of the table with only three wins from 13 matches, are playing their final game of a challenging season. Despite being eliminated, MS Dhoni's team will be motivated to end their campaign on a positive note and avoid finishing last, a first in their IPL history. They will aim to emulate Lucknow Super Giants, who defeated GT in their previous match.
Spotlight on Key Performers and Team News
GT's left-arm spinner R Sai Kishore, enjoying a breakout season with 16 wickets, will be keen to perform well against his former franchise. For CSK, mid-season replacement Dewald Brevis has shown promise with impactful middle-order hitting (168 runs in 5 matches, SR 164.70) and will look to make a final impression. Gujarat might consider replacing Kagiso Rabada with Gerald Coetzee if they opt for a change in their pace attack. CSK could bring back Shaik Rasheed at the top, possibly for the out-of-form Devon Conway.
Pitch and Conditions Outlook
The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad has predominantly favoured teams batting first this season, with five out of six completed matches won by the side setting the target. The average first-innings score has been high (around 217 in IPL 2025), suggesting another potentially high-scoring encounter. While the pitch offers good bounce for strokeplay, spinners might find assistance as the match progresses. The weather forecast for the afternoon/evening indicates very hot conditions (around 40°C) with no rain expected.
With a direct path to Qualifier 1 at stake, Gujarat Titans have strong motivation to secure a victory against Chennai Super Kings. CSK, on the other hand, will be looking to play the role of spoilers and end a disappointing season with a creditable performance. The contest will likely hinge on how GT's formidable top order fares and whether CSK's batsmen can find consistency against a potent Gujarat bowling attack.
