GT vs RR IPL 2025: Big Selection Calls Ahead of Clash in Ahmedabad as Nehra Drops Veteran, Samson Eyes Bowling Shake-Up

Ahmedabad, April 9, 2025 The stage is set for a high-voltage IPL 2025 showdown between Gujarat Titans (GT) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With both teams riding high after convincing wins in their previous encounters, the pressure now shifts to the playing XI selection, where Ashish Nehra and Sanju Samson are making some bold moves.

Rajasthan Royals: Samson Set to Reshuffle Bowling Attack?

Rajasthan Royals have displayed a well-balanced unit in recent matches, with Sanju Samson’s captaincy bringing out the best in players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, and Shimron Hetmyer. However, the pace department may see a change as Yudhveer Singh, who leaked 20 runs in just 2 overs without a wicket in the last match, is expected to be replaced.

Akash Madhwal, who impressed in previous IPL seasons for Mumbai Indians, could finally get his chance in the RR lineup, especially on Ahmedabad’s fast track.

Likely Playing XI Rajasthan Royals:

• Sanju Samson (C/WK)

• Yashasvi Jaiswal

• Riyan Parag

• Nitish Rana

• Shimron Hetmyer

• Dhruv Jurel

• Wanindu Hasaranga

• Jofra Archer

• Maheesh Theekshana

• Akash Madhwal

• Sandeep Sharma

Gujarat Titans: Nehra Drops Long-Time Associate for Form Concerns

For Gujarat Titans, head coach Ashish Nehra is reportedly set to drop veteran pacer Ishant Sharma, despite his long-standing professional camaraderie with the bowler. With Ishant failing to impress, the team is likely to bring in left-arm pacer Kulwant Khejroliya, who offers more variety and a point of difference.

Meanwhile, Shubman Gill continues to lead from the front with a half-century in the last match. Washington Sundar, promoted up the order, scored an impressive 49 and may continue in a similar role. The finishing touch came from Sherfane Rutherford, whose late-hitting sealed a tight win over Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Likely Playing XI Gujarat Titans:

• Shubman Gill (C)

• Sai Sudharsan

• Jos Buttler

• Washington Sundar

• Rahul Tewatia

• Shahrukh Khan

• Rashid Khan

• Sai Kishore

• Mohammed Siraj

• Kulwant Khejroliya

• Prasidh Krishna

Key Battles to Watch:

• Shubman Gill vs Jofra Archer Speed vs technique at the top

• Wanindu Hasaranga vs Rahul Tewatia The spin challenge in the middle overs

• Jos Buttler vs Theekshana A potential English-Sri Lankan mini duel

Match Outlook:

• Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad

• Pitch Report: Flat deck with some early swing expect a high-scoring affair

• Weather: Warm with no rain interruptions forecast

With a playoff spot eventually at stake, both teams will be eager to stamp their authority early in the league phase. The outcome could hinge on which captain makes the smarter bowling changes under pressure.