Gujarat Titans have had a shaky start to IPL 2026, losing their first two matches on the trot. However, they have since bounced back in style, putting together a hat-trick of wins. On Friday, April 17 GT defeated Kolkata Knight Riders by five wickets at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
Interestingly, much of the chatter surrounding their turnaround has focused on the non-cricket factor associated with skipper Shubman Gill. The opener has a new groomed look this season, a neatly trimmed beard with a full stubble that gives him a sharper and more mature look compared to his earlier clean shaven style.
Since adopting the look, GT has not lost a game and is said to be a good luck charm among fans.
GT vs KKR: HIGHLIGHTS | SCORECARD
Asked about it after the win against KKR, Gill said: “It’s all about trying to stay in the present. Let’s see – we’ve won three games since I kept it, so.”
EYES ON THE PRIZE FOR GILL
Gill was in fine form on Friday, scoring 86 off 50 balls with eight fours and four sixes. His innings guided the Titans to a successful chase of 181 with two balls to spare. With that knock, he also climbed to the top of the Orange Cap race with 251 runs from four matches and showed the first signs of the consistency he displayed in 2023 when he amassed 890 runs.
However, for Gill, individual milestones are on the backburner. The young captain remains focused on the bigger goal of leading the Titans to the IPL title.
“Honestly, I don’t think it’s important. The only thing that matters is the team and you know playing in the final and winning the cup would be something I’m looking forward to,” Gill added.
With the win over KKR, the Titans moved into the top four with six points and a net rate of +0.018. The win further boosted their momentum in IPL 2026 as they continue to climb the table after a slow start.
The Titans will now look to extend their winning streak when they take on Mumbai Indians (MI) at the same venue on Monday, April 20.
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Issued by:
sabyasachi chowdhury
Published on:
18 Apr 2026 0:21 IST
