New Chandigarh, April 1 (NationPress) Captain Shubman Gill acknowledged that the Gujarat Titans (GT) fell short with their batting performance, particularly in the crucial final overs, after losing to Punjab Kings (PBKS) by three wickets in their opening match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the PCA New International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.

Gill expressed that the pitch had the potential for a higher score, but his team failed to make the most of it. “We bowled overs. Batting-wise, it seemed like a 210-220 wicket. We believed that 175 would be a competitive score, but we kept losing wickets and couldn't capitalize in the last five overs. Once the ball aged, it became harder to score down the ground,” he stated during the post-match presentation.

Ultimately, the Gujarat Titans posted a score of 162/6 in their allotted 20 overs, despite a solid beginning from Gill and Sai Sudharsan, who took the team to 35/0 in just three overs. However, a series of wickets in the middle overs, including Gill’s own dismissal for 39 runs, along with contributions from Jos Buttler (38) and Glenn Phillips (25), hindered their ability to achieve a larger total.

Gill also mentioned that batting conditions slightly improved in the second innings due to rain. “During the second innings, the continuous rain made the ball wet, which improved batting conditions a bit,” he added.

Despite the loss, the Gujarat skipper commended his bowling department for keeping them in the game, particularly highlighting Prasidh Krishna, who took three wickets. “The bowling was commendable, and they should not be blamed. I could have delayed Prasidh's entry, but he came in at the right moment, took wickets, and kept us competitive until the 17th and 18th overs. It’s all hypothetical, but he was also performing well in the nets,” he remarked.

Gill also praised young talent Ashok Sharma, who ended with figures of 1-31, saying, “Ashok works diligently on his game; he’s a great addition to our team. I encountered him at one of our camps a couple of months ago. He is doing well, and I hope his success continues,” he noted.

In pursuit of 163, Punjab Kings relied on debutant Cooper Connolly, who scored an unbeaten 72 to help his team reach the target in 19.1 overs, despite a late challenge from Gujarat.

Gill concluded with an uplifting message for his squad, saying, “I’d like to say well done, boys. Maintain your effort and keep honing your skills; always showcase your talent,” he stated.

The Gujarat Titans are set to face the Rajasthan Royals at their home ground, the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, on Saturday.