FROM STYLISH OPENER TO CALM TACTICIAN, GILL IS LEADING GUJARAT TITANS WITH FLAIR AND FOCUS

At Eden Gardens, Shubman Gill did more than score runs — he made a statement.

- BY A.K.S. SATISH

The Gujarat Titans skipper returned to the ground where he made his name, struck a majestic 90, and dismantled defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders with the composure of a seasoned leader. The result? A 39-run win that sent Gujarat to the top of the table and sent a message to the rest of the league.

Gill, who took over the reins after Hardik Pandya’s move back to Mumbai Indians, came into IPL Season 18 with questions over his leadership. But halfway through the season, those doubts are vanishing fast. He’s not just leading the Titans — he’s inspiring them.

Outplaying the champions, topping the table

Monday’s commanding win in Kolkata saw the Titans dominate in every department. Gill and Orange Cap-holder Sai Sudharsan added 114 for the opening stand, laying the foundation for Jos Buttler’s explosive 23-ball 41. With the ball, Prasidh Krishna and Rashid Khan picked up two wickets each on a sluggish pitch to seal the win.

The result took Gujarat to 12 points from eight matches, putting them in pole position. Delhi Capitals, on 10 points, have a game in hand.

Rashid Khan: Gill comes with a plan

Gujarat’s vice-captain Rashid Khan was effusive in his praise for Gill’s leadership.