Match Overview
The Gujarat Titans (GT) are set to face the Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Match 9 of the IPL 2026 on April 4. The high-stakes encounter is scheduled for 7:30 PM IST at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. This match promises to be a thrilling contest between two teams with contrasting starts to their campaigns.
Team Performance and Context
The Gujarat Titans entered the tournament with a narrow three-wicket loss to the Punjab Kings in their opening game, failing to defend a total of 162. On the other hand, the Rajasthan Royals kicked off their season with a dominant eight-wicket victory over the Chennai Super Kings, chasing down 127 in just 12.1 overs.
For the Gujarat Titans, the primary narrative revolves around finding their finishing touch at home. Despite solid contributions from Shubman Gill and Jos Buttler, the middle order struggled to accelerate in the death overs during their opener. GT will rely on their world-class bowling unit, led by Rashid Khan, to stifle a red-hot RR batting lineup.
On the other side, the Rajasthan Royals are in a “New Era” under captain Riyan Parag. After trading Sanju Samson to CSK, the Royals look refreshed. The headlines are currently dominated by 15-year-old sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who smashed a 15-ball fifty on debut. The Royals aim to prove that their clinical performance against CSK wasn’t a one-off and that they can dominate on the true-bounce surface of Ahmedabad.
Head-to-Head Record
This rivalry has been significantly one-sided since Gujarat’s inception. In 8 head-to-head meetings, the Gujarat Titans have asserted dominance with 6 wins, while the Rajasthan Royals have managed only 2 victories. In Ahmedabad, GT hold a 2–1 record over RR, including their historic win in the 2022 IPL Final. However, the Royals’ victory over GT in 2023 at this very venue serves as a reminder that they can breach the Titans’ fortress when their spin-and-pace combination clicks.
Probable Playing XIs
Gujarat Titans – Probable Playing XI
- Shubman Gill (c): The captain remains the backbone of the batting; he scored a steady 39 in the opener.
- Jos Buttler (wk): The former Royal faces his old team, looking to improve on his 38-run start against PBKS.
- Sai Sudharsan: A consistent performer at No. 3 who anchors the innings beautifully in Ahmedabad.
- Glenn Phillips: The dynamic Kiwi provides middle-order muscle and exceptional fielding.
- M Shahrukh Khan: Expected to provide the late-innings fireworks that were missing in the first game.
- Rahul Tewatia: The designated finisher who GT relies on for “miracle” chases.
- Washington Sundar: Provides powerplay utility with the ball and depth to the batting.
- Rashid Khan: The world’s premier T20 spinner and the leading wicket-taker in this H2H fixture.
- Kagiso Rabada: The Proteas speedster provides elite pace and experience at the death.
- Mohammed Siraj: A key addition to the GT attack to hunt for early wickets with the new ball.
- Prasidh Krishna: Impressed as an Impact Player with 3/29 in the opener and is likely to start.
Rajasthan Royals – Probable Playing XI
- Yashasvi Jaiswal: The explosive southpaw who sets the tone at the top.
- Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: The 15-year-old prodigy. After his record-breaking 52 (17) against CSK, all eyes are on his encore.
- Dhruv Jurel (wk): Promoted to No. 3 in the last game, Jurel adds flexibility and quick scoring.
- Riyan Parag (c): Leading with newfound maturity, Parag will look to dominate the middle overs.
- Shimron Hetmyer: The designated finisher who has historically enjoyed success against GT’s pacers.
- Ravindra Jadeja: Returning to his home-state ground, Jadeja’s “Pink Jersey” debut saw him take 2 wickets.
- Ravi Bishnoi: The leg-spinner will be key in the middle overs on the large Ahmedabad outfield.
- Jofra Archer: Back at peak fitness, Archer’s pace and bounce will be a stern test for the GT top order.
- Nandre Burger: The left-arm speedster provides an aggressive angle and high pace.
- Sandeep Sharma: The veteran swing bowler who specializes in powerplay discipline.
- Avesh Khan: Provides middle-overs stability and death-bowling options.
Key Players to Watch
Shubman Gill: As the leading run-scorer in this rivalry (332 runs), Gill’s ability to navigate the Royals’ new-ball pair will be critical.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: Following his sensational debut, the cricket world is eager to see if he can replicate his aggression against the likes of Rabada and Rashid.
Dream11 Strategy & Top Picks
Top Batters for Dream11
Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal are essential picks. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is a high-reward pick given his current form. Jos Buttler is a must-have, especially against his former franchise. Riyan Parag can be a superb addition.
Best All-Rounders to Boost Points
Ravindra Jadeja is a premium choice for his 4 overs and batting potential. Washington Sundar offers great value as an all-round contributor.
Bowlers to Watch in Dream11
Rashid Khan is a captaincy favourite in Ahmedabad. Jofra Archer, Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna are the top picks for wicket-taking pacers.
Captaincy and Vice-Captaincy Picks
One can pick Shubman Gill as captain and Yashasvi Jaiswal as vice-captain. For a bowling-heavy side, Rashid Khan (C) and Jofra Archer (VC) are excellent alternatives.
Pitch Report & Venue Conditions
The Narendra Modi Stadium typically offers a batting-friendly surface with a consistent bounce that aids stroke-making. However, the large boundaries mean that clearing the ropes requires genuine power. The average 1st Innings score is between 175–185, though 200+ is often targeted. In terms of pace vs spin, traditionally, pacers have taken more wickets here, but the dry heat can assist spinners in the second innings. Expect clear skies with temperatures around 29°C. Humidity will be moderate (42%), meaning dew might play a minor role in the second innings.
Match Prediction – Who Has the Upper Hand?
Gujarat Titans are slight favourites due to their historical dominance over RR and their familiarity with home conditions. However, the Rajasthan Royals are arguably the more balanced side on current form, especially with their rejuvenated bowling attack.
FAQs About GT vs RR Playing 11
Who are the key players in the GT vs RR clash?
For GT, keep an eye on Shubman Gill and Rashid Khan. For RR, the focus is on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Jofra Archer.
Who is the captain for each team?
Shubman Gill captains the Gujarat Titans (GT), while Riyan Parag leads the Rajasthan Royals (RR).
What is the start time?
The match begins at 7:30 PM IST on Saturday, April 4, 2026.
