Does Gujarat Titans Need a Quality Indian Middle-Order Batter?
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Synopsis
In a revealing analysis, Tom Moody emphasizes the Gujarat Titans' urgent need for a strong Indian middle-order batter after their IPL 2025 Eliminator defeat. With crucial insights from players like Varun Aaron, the discussion highlights the importance of filling this gap to enhance team dynamics.
Key Takeaways
- Tom Moody believes GT needs a strong Indian middle-order batter.
- GT's top order excelled, but the middle order struggled in crucial moments.
- The absence of a player like David Miller is felt in the current squad.
- Effective middle-order batting is essential for chasing high targets.
- Identifying a quality batter could significantly improve team balance.
New Delhi, May 31 (NationPress) Former head coach of Sunrisers Hyderabad, Tom Moody, has expressed his view that the Gujarat Titans (GT) are lacking a quality Indian middle-order batter, a need that became evident following their 20-run loss against the Mumbai Indians (MI) in the IPL 2025 Eliminator.
GT’s impressive IPL 2025 journey was spearheaded by their top three batters, Shubman Gill, B Sai Sudharsan, and Jos Buttler, resulting in limited opportunities for the middle order during league matches.
During the pursuit of 229 runs in New Chandigarh, after the dismissals of Washington Sundar and Sudharsan, the middle-order trio of Sherfane Rutherford, Rahul Tewatia, and M Shahrukh Khan struggled to keep up the momentum against a formidable MI bowling attack, leading to GT's exit from the competition.
"I somewhat group Rutherford with Tewatia. They both play similar roles, though they have their differences—one is more proficient at hitting sixes than the other. However, together they faced 26 balls today and managed just one six. That tells the entire story," Moody remarked.
"They bat in the closing stages of the innings, where boundaries are the vital currency. It’s all about fours and sixes, not singles and doubles. They train for such moments, and this was their chance to capitalize, which could have made a significant difference," he added.
Regarding their batting, Moody pointed out that while Washington contributed well, they lack a quality Indian player who can effectively fill the top-order or middle-order gap. Finding someone to fulfill this role could greatly enhance the team’s balance, he stated on ESPNcricinfo.
Varun Aaron, a former Indian fast-bowler who was part of GT during their IPL 2022 title victory, noted that the team currently lacks a middle-order batter capable of replicating the role played by David Miller in their championship run.
"Tewatia has typically been the player who enters during the last two or three overs and performs remarkably. However, he has never been like David Miller, who would come in with several overs left, build his innings, and capitalize on every opportunity. That’s how GT secured their final victory," Aaron stated.
"There were many instances where the top order set the stage perfectly for Miller; he would carry the innings deep and finish it off. This year, Rutherford has struggled to replicate that on more than a few occasions," he concluded.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the evolving dynamics within the Gujarat Titans. With expert opinions from Tom Moody and Varun Aaron, it is evident that addressing the middle-order batting issue is vital for maintaining competitiveness in the IPL. The analysis reflects an objective assessment of the team's performance and future prospects.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Tom Moody say about Gujarat Titans?
Tom Moody indicated that the Gujarat Titans need a quality Indian middle-order batter to fill a void exposed after their loss to the Mumbai Indians in the IPL 2025 Eliminator.
Who are the key players in Gujarat Titans?
Key players for the Gujarat Titans include Shubman Gill, B Sai Sudharsan, and Jos Buttler, who have led the team's batting efforts in IPL 2025.
What role did David Miller play for Gujarat Titans?
David Miller was instrumental in the Titans' IPL 2022 title win, known for stabilizing the innings and finishing games effectively, a role that is currently lacking in the team.
