Ahmedabad: Shubman Gill may have played a match-winning knock, but the Gujarat Titans (GT) skipper admitted he was “quite disappointed” with how the chase ended against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League 2026.
Gill’s composed 86 off 50 balls powered GT to a five-wicket victory at the Narendra Modi Stadium, yet the captain felt his side could have wrapped up the game earlier and more efficiently.
Gill unhappy despite anchoring successful chase
Reflecting on the match, Gill said he wanted to finish the chase himself and stay unbeaten till the end. Instead, his dismissal late in the innings left him dissatisfied despite the comfortable win.
“Ideally, we would have liked to finish at least an over or a couple of overs earlier, and I was quite disappointed with the way I got out,” Gill said.
He added that taking responsibility as a finisher is something he is working on and hopes to improve in upcoming matches.
GT register third straight win
The win marked Gujarat Titans’ third consecutive victory this season, following earlier successes against Delhi Capitals and Lucknow Super Giants. The result pushed GT into the top four of the points table with six points from five matches.
Gill’s innings, which included eight fours and four sixes, ensured that the chase of 181 remained under control throughout, even though it stretched to 19.4 overs.
KKR remain winless in IPL 2026
Meanwhile, Kolkata Knight Riders, led by Ajinkya Rahane, continue to struggle in the tournament. With five defeats and one washed-out match, KKR sit at the bottom of the table with just one point.
Despite putting up a competitive total, KKR failed to capitalise on key moments with the ball, allowing GT to maintain momentum during the chase.
Focus on fitness and mental strength
Gill also revealed that he used the break before IPL 2026 to work extensively on his fitness and mental approach. According to the GT skipper, improving tactical awareness has been just as important as refining technical skills.
“I worked on my fitness and also on the mental aspect of the game—trying to get better not just technically but tactically as well,” he said.
His preparation is reflected in his consistent performances so far in the tournament.
Gill leads Orange Cap race
With 251 runs in four matches at an average of 62.75, including three half-centuries, Gill has emerged as one of the leading performers this season. He has also overtaken Virat Kohli in the race for the Orange Cap.
His form will be crucial as Gujarat Titans aim to maintain their winning momentum and strengthen their playoff push.
Conclusion
Despite a convincing win, Shubman Gill’s candid reaction underlines his high expectations as a leader and batter. While Gujarat Titans continue their upward climb in IPL 2026, the skipper remains focused on finishing games more clinically.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by News Karnataka staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
Comments are closed.