Shubman Gill, the captain of Gujarat Titans (GT), addressed the media ahead of the IPL 2026 final, sharing insights on the team's journey, the challenge posed by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), and the remarkable consistency of Sai Sudharsan. Gill also discussed the mindset required to handle pressure as a captain, the team's bowling success, and his views on modern T20 batting.
GT's Journey to the Final
Gill reflected on Gujarat Titans' path to the final, emphasizing the collective effort and resilience shown throughout the tournament. He highlighted the team's ability to adapt to different situations and praised the support staff for their strategic inputs. According to Gill, the journey has been a learning experience, and the team is eager to cap it off with a victory in the final.
Challenge of Facing RCB
When asked about the challenge of facing RCB in the final, Gill acknowledged their strength as a complete team. He noted that RCB has performed exceptionally well in all departments and that GT would need to be at their best to overcome them. Gill stressed the importance of executing plans effectively and staying calm under pressure.
Sai Sudharsan's Consistency
Gill heaped praise on Sai Sudharsan for his consistent performances throughout the season. He described Sudharsan as a reliable batsman who has stepped up in crucial moments. Gill credited Sudharsan's hard work and temperament for his success and expressed confidence in his ability to deliver in the final.
Managing Pressure as Captain
On the topic of captaincy, Gill admitted that pressure is inevitable but emphasized the importance of staying focused and leading by example. He said that he draws inspiration from senior players and focuses on making decisions that benefit the team. Gill also mentioned that he enjoys the responsibility of captaincy and sees it as an opportunity to grow.
GT's Bowling Success
Gill attributed GT's bowling success to the variety and depth in the attack. He praised the bowlers for their discipline and ability to take wickets at crucial junctures. Gill singled out the team's death bowling as a key strength and expressed satisfaction with how the bowling unit has executed plans.
Modern T20 Batting
Discussing modern T20 batting, Gill noted the evolution of the game and the increasing importance of power-hitting and adaptability. He emphasized that batsmen need to have a wide range of shots and the ability to assess conditions quickly. Gill also highlighted the role of data and analytics in preparing for specific bowlers and situations.
Preparation Ahead of the Big Clash
Ahead of the final, Gill revealed that the team has been focusing on mental preparation and tactical planning. He said that the players are aware of their roles and are confident in their abilities. Gill concluded by expressing excitement for the final and vowed that GT would give their best to lift the trophy.
