New Delhi, April 5 (NationPress) Following Gujarat Titans' close defeat against Rajasthan Royals in a gripping final-over showdown, former South African fast bowler Dale Steyn has expressed that when the race for the playoffs intensifies, GT will reflect on this match and lament the chances they let slip away.

A thrilling last over by pacer Tushar Deshpande enabled Rajasthan Royals to secure a dramatic six-run victory over Gujarat Titans in an exhilarating clash during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Saturday.

Electing to bat first, Rajasthan managed to score a formidable 210/6 in 20 overs, thanks to impressive half-centuries from Dhruv Jurel and Yashasvi Jaiswal. Gujarat’s pursuit was led by a stellar innings from Sai Sudharsan, but despite a late push from Rashid Khan and Kagiso Rabada, they fell agonizingly short.

“This encounter between GT and RR stands out as the most thrilling match of IPL 2026,” Steyn commented, highlighting the high stakes and the intense drama that unfolded throughout the match. He noted that the Gujarat Titans, after a strong start,

While Rajasthan emerged victorious, it was not due to a lack of effort from Gujarat. The Titans, chasing a daunting target of 211, found themselves in promising positions at different stages, particularly with Sai Sudharsan's impressive 73 and a late onslaught from Rashid Khan and Kagiso Rabada. However, Steyn emphasized that Gujarat’s failure to capitalize on these moments ultimately led to their defeat.

“As the latter half of the season approaches, when playoff positions are at stake, GT will look back at this match and ponder how many opportunities they missed to secure a win. They did not take advantage and let the match slip away,” Steyn remarked, stressing the need to seize pivotal moments in closely contested games.

“RR will be quite pleased with this win. Unlike their previous victory against CSK, where they faced little resistance, this match against GT required them to exert maximum effort to clinch the win,” Steyn added, underscoring the team’s determination during the contest.

This change in mindset, according to Steyn, is crucial for Rajasthan as they progress in the tournament. “Last season was a tough one for Rajasthan, losing matches by narrow margins and missing out on critical opportunities to secure victories. However, this season, RR appears to be a rejuvenated team, eager to implement every strategy possible to avoid leaving empty-handed.”

However, the pivotal moment arose in the final over when Rajasthan captain Riyan Parag entrusted Tushar Deshpande with the task of defending 11 runs. Steyn praised the pacer’s poise and execution under tremendous pressure.

“The final over bowled by Tushar Deshpande was remarkable. He flawlessly executed his Yorkers under pressure, leaving no room for a player like Rashid Khan to score boundaries, ensuring his team faced no hiccups in the closing moments of a 200-plus run chase,” Steyn stated.

Steyn acknowledged that this performance could enhance Deshpande’s chances of being called up to the senior Indian team, noting that the ability to manage pressure and execute plans flawlessly in such scenarios is a rare trait among cricketers.

“Maintaining composure in such high-stakes situations is incredibly challenging, as many thoughts race through a bowler’s mind. To execute plans perfectly without succumbing to pressure is a unique skill,” Steyn mentioned.

He further commented, “Tushar bowled four pinpoint Yorkers, then altered his line to deliver a length ball, cleverly enticing Rashid Khan to attempt a big shot, which resulted in his dismissal at the boundary. A fantastic display of cricketing intelligence. Tushar Deshpande bowled fearlessly, and this performance will undoubtedly keep the Indian selectors attentive to him this IPL season.”