Siraj and Buttler Lead Gujarat Titans to Victory over RCB
The Gujarat Titans delivered a strong performance to hand Royal Challengers Bengaluru their first defeat of the 2025 Indian Premier League season, securing an eight-wicket victory at RCB's home ground, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Key contributions came from fast bowler Mohammed Siraj against his former team and opener Jos Buttler, who anchored a successful run chase.
Siraj Impresses against Former Team
Returning to Bengaluru after seven seasons with RCB, Mohammed Siraj bowled with notable intensity. Generating speeds over 140kph, he made crucial breakthroughs during the powerplay and returned later to claim another vital wicket. His economical figures of 3 for 19 were instrumental in restricting RCB.
Livingstone Leads RCB's Fightback
RCB found themselves in early trouble, losing key wickets during the powerplay phase. However, a determined effort from the middle order, spearheaded by Liam Livingstone's aggressive half-century (54), helped them rebuild. Valuable cameos from Jitesh Sharma (33) and Tim David (32) propelled RCB to a competitive total of 169 for 8.
Buttler Guides Titans' a Comfortable win
In response, Gujarat Titans managed the chase with composure. Although RCB bowlers Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar started tidily, they couldn't maintain sustained pressure. After the early dismissal of Shubman Gill, Jos Buttler formed a crucial 75-run partnership with Sai Sudharsan (49), laying a solid foundation. Buttler remained unbeaten on 73 off just 39 balls. He was ably supported by Sherfane Rutherford, who entered as an Impact Substitute and contributed a quickfire 30 not out. Their unbroken partnership ensured GT reached the target comfortably, winning with 13 balls remaining.
Gujarat Titans' ability to strike early with the ball, primarily through Siraj, combined with a well-structured chase led by the experienced Buttler, proved decisive. This marked GT's second win in three matches, while halting RCB's initial winning streak.
Photo courtesy: CRICINFO
