A devastating powerplay performance from Kagiso Rabada and Mohammed Siraj propelled Gujarat Titans to a commanding 82-run victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Tuesday. The duo’s relentless pace and accuracy left SRH reeling at 34 for three in the first six overs, effectively ending the contest before it truly began.
Defending a total of 168, Gujarat Titans knew early wickets were essential on a surface favoring teams batting first this season. Mohammed Siraj struck immediately, dismissing the dangerous Travis Head for a golden duck in a wicket-maiden opening over. The Indian pacer has now claimed four wickets in the first over during IPL 2026, consistently providing the perfect start for his team.
Kagiso Rabada then joined the attack, responding to being struck for a six off his first delivery by removing Abhishek Sharma in the same over. The South African quick followed up by dismissing Ishan Kishan, who had also hit him for a maximum earlier. Siraj continued to apply pressure, forcing Smaran Ravichandran into a shell before Rabada returned to claim his third wicket of the powerplay.
The victory was built on Test-match bowling discipline, as both Siraj and Rabada consistently attacked hard lengths rather than searching for magic deliveries. Spinner Sai Kishore credited the duo’s red-ball experience and praised captain Shubman Gill and coach Ashish Nehra for providing clear bowling plans.
The win lifted Gujarat Titans to 16 points, historically a guaranteed playoff berth in the 10-team IPL format. However, the team remains cautious after slipping from a strong position in the previous season. They next face Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens, where they hope their premier pace pair continues its devastating form. With Rabada and Siraj at their peak, Gujarat looks increasingly formidable as the tournament enters its decisive phase.