Looking at the current form, I believe that Gujarat Titans will win the trophy: Ravi Shastri
Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans sit atop the points table with 12 points.
Former India cricketer and head coach Ravi Shastri opined that the defending champions, Gujarat Titans, will retain the title in the ongoing IPL 2023. Hardik Pandya-led Titans sit atop the points table with 12 points, courtesy of six wins in nine fixtures and a decent Net Run Rate (NRR) of 0.532.
Carrying their form from the last edition, former cricketer Shastri, believes that the side has flexibility and the consistent performances from certain members of the team could help them retain the prestigious title.
"Looking at the current form and team standings, I believe that Gujarat will win the trophy. There is consistency and flexibility in this team and there are seven-eight players who are performing consistently. The players in this Gujarat side complement each other,” Shastri said on Star Sports.
However, Gujarat suffered a defeat at the hands of David Warner’s Delhi Capitals in the last outing, thereby putting a screeching halt to their three-match winning streak. The Titans will lock horns with last season’s runners up, Rajasthan Royals at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on Friday, May 5, and will be gunning to get back to winning ways.
Sanju Samson has matured as a captain: Ravi Shastri
Ahead of the eagerly-anticipated clash between the last year’s finalists, Shastri lavished massive praise on Rajasthan skipper Sanju Samson. The former cricketer was impressed with the way Sanju has been using his spinners in the matches and how he has evolved as the leader of the franchise.
"Sanju Samson has matured as a captain. He uses his spinners very well. Only a good captain can play with three spinners and use them smartly,” said Shastri.
Placed fourth on the IPL Points Table, Sanju Samson and Co. have 10 points with five wins in nine outings. Adding to this, they have the best NRR among all teams with 0.800, and will be raring to do a double over the Titans following their first win on April 16.
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