IPL 2025 Match 5: Gujarat Titans vs Punjab Kings – Who Will Take Early Momentum?
The IPL 2025 season is heating up as Gujarat Titans (GT) take on Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Match 5 at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. Both teams had a disastrous IPL 2024, finishing 8th and 9th, respectively. While GT will be eager to redeem themselves at home, PBKS will be desperate to shake off their tag of being slow starters. With both franchises eyeing a strong start, expect a high-voltage clash in Ahmedabad!
Gujarat Titans Update – New Season, Fresh Hopes
After a disappointing 2024 campaign, Shubman Gill and his squad will be eager to turn things around. With the advantage of playing at home, GT will look to make a statement. Their biggest strength is the explosive opening duo of Gill and Jos Buttler, who can take apart any bowling attack.
Players to Watch:
- Shubman Gill – GT’s captain has been rock-solid at the top. He has a great record at Ahmedabad and will be key in setting the tone.
- Jos Buttler – A T20 beast, Buttler can single-handedly change the game in the powerplay. His record against PBKS is strong, averaging 48.2 in the last five games against them.
- Rashid Khan – The Afghan wizard remains GT’s trump card with the ball. He has a stunning economy rate of 6.4 vs PBKS and will be crucial in the middle overs.
- Kagiso Rabada & Mohammad Siraj – This lethal pace duo will be key in restricting PBKS in the powerplay and death overs.
Gujarat Titans Predicted Playing XI:
Shubman Gill (c), Jos Buttler (wk), Sai Sudharsan, Shahrukh Khan, Glenn Phillips, Rahul Tewatia, Washington Sundar, Mohammad Arshad Khan, Rashid Khan, Kagiso Rabada, Mohammad Siraj, Mahipal Lomror (Impact Player)
Punjab Kings Update – Can Shreyas Iyer Turn the Tides?
Punjab Kings have been one of the most underperforming teams in IPL history, failing to make the playoffs for the last 10 seasons. However, with Shreyas Iyer leading the squad, the team will be looking for a fresh start. But they face an uphill battle against GT in Ahmedabad.
Players to Watch:
- Shreyas Iyer – The new captain is known for his composed batting in the middle overs. His strike rate against GT is 135+, and he will have to anchor the innings.
- Glenn Maxwell – A game-changer on his day, Maxwell can destroy GT’s bowlers. His strike rate at Ahmedabad is 175+, making him a key weapon for PBKS.
- Arshdeep Singh – Punjab’s pace spearhead has taken 7 wickets in 4 games vs GT and will be crucial in the powerplay.
- Yuzvendra Chahal – The veteran spinner will be vital on this turning track, especially against GT’s middle order.
Punjab Kings Predicted Playing XI:
Shreyas Iyer (c), Prabhsimran Singh, Vishnu Vinod (wk), Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Shashank Singh, Marco Jansen, Harpreet Brar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Sen, Arshdeep Singh, Suryansh Shegde (Impact Player)
GT vs PBKS Pitch Report – A Tricky Surface Awaits
The Narendra Modi Stadium offers a batting-friendly surface with a twist. While the new ball moves early, spinners tend to dominate in the second half. Batters who get set can score big, but they must be wary of the unpredictable pace of the wicket.
- Average first innings score: 170
- Ideal target: 190+
- Best strategy: Chasing teams have won 4 of the last 5 matches, making it tough for teams setting a target.
Weather Conditions – Perfect Night for Cricket
Ahmedabad will see clear skies with temperatures around 28°C in the evening. There’s no rain threat, but humidity might come into play, affecting bowlers in the latter stages of the match.
GT vs PBKS Prediction – Who Holds the Edge?
While Punjab Kings have a fresh leadership setup, Gujarat Titans have a better-balanced squad and the advantage of playing at home. GT’s bowling attack looks superior, and if Buttler and Gill fire at the top, PBKS could struggle to contain them.