Rashid Khan takes four wickets in Gujarat Titans victory

Gujarat Titans climbed to the second spot on the IPL 2026 points table following a clinical 77-run win over Rajasthan Royals at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Saturday. Defending a formidable total of 229, the Titans' bowling unit executed their plans to perfection, bundled out the hosts for a mere 152 in just 16.3 overs.

Rashid Khan Leads Bowling Masterclass

The Afghan leg-spinner turned the game decisively by dismantling the middle order with a sensational four-wicket haul. While the Royals started their chase with aggressive intent through young Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who struck a quick 36, they lost momentum rapidly. Rashid's variations proved too difficult to read, accounting for key dismissals including Dhruv Jurel and Ravindra Jadeja. Jason Holder supported the attack efficiently, cleaning up the tail to finish with three wickets for 12 runs.

Gill and Sudharsan Set Scoring Record

Earlier, skipper Shubman Gill continued his rich vein of form, smashing 84 runs off only 44 deliveries. Alongside Sai Sudharsan, who contributed a steady 55, the duo shared a 118-run opening partnership that laid the foundation for the high score. Their aggressive approach during the powerplay yielded 82 runs, marking one of the most productive starts this season. Washington Sundar provided a late surge with an unbeaten 37, ensuring the total crossed the 200-run mark comfortably.

Winning at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium has historically been a challenge for visiting teams, but the Titans have now secured their fourth consecutive win, showing a level of consistency rarely seen in this edition of the league. This defeat leaves the Royals at fifth position, forcing them to reconsider their strategy as the race for the playoffs intensifies

With Inputs fro Agency Threads and Image courtesy: ANI