Aakash Chopra Calls for Gujarat Titans' Top Order to Step Up After IPL Loss

In the wake of Gujarat Titans' disappointing IPL 2026 opener against Punjab Kings, Aakash Chopra has called for the team's top three batsmen to elevate their performance. He expressed concerns over Glenn Phillips' scoring and Washington Sundar's strike rate, while also critiquing Shubman Gill's captaincy. Chopra emphasized the need for strategic adjustments in the batting order and bowling plans. As the Titans prepare for their next match against Rajasthan Royals, the pressure mounts for the team to deliver a stronger performance.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 1, 2026, 23:39 IST

Chopra Urges GT's Top Order to Perform

Following the Gujarat Titans' disappointing start in the IPL 2026 against last season's finalists, the Punjab Kings, former cricketer Aakash Chopra emphasized the need for the team's top three batsmen to excel.

During a discussion on Star Sports, Chopra remarked, "The top three for Gujarat Titans must deliver, as they are not allowing themselves the chance to explore alternative strategies. Surprisingly, Glenn Phillips' 25 runs mark his highest score in IPL history to date."

After Punjab Kings opted to bowl first on Tuesday night, they successfully limited GT to a total of 162 runs for 6 wickets in 20 overs, thanks to impressive bowling performances from Marco Jansen, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Vijaykumar Vyshak. Notably, no GT batsman managed to score over 50 runs.

Need for Improved Strike Rates

Chopra highlighted that both Phillips and Washington Sundar must enhance their scoring rates. He stated, "We expect more consistent contributions from him, and Washington Sundar also needs to increase his scoring pace, as he appeared somewhat stagnant. While Shahrukh Khan remains in the lineup, I believe Kumar Kushagra also deserved consideration for selection."

Punjab Kings' Narrow Victory

On Tuesday night, the Punjab batting lineup faced a challenge, but Cooper Connolly's unbeaten 72 runs led the team to a narrow three-wicket victory.

Critique of Gill's Captaincy

Chopra also expressed concerns regarding the captaincy of Shubman Gill, stating that his leadership 'left a bit to be desired.'

"Gujarat Titans need to reassess the structure of their 4, 5, and 6 batting positions. Additionally, the bowling strategies were confusing. Siraj had two overs remaining when the match was nearly over, and Prasidh Krishna was introduced quite late. Overall, Shubman Gill's captaincy could use improvement," he added.

Next Matches on the Horizon

The Gujarat Titans are set to face the Rajasthan Royals at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Saturday, while the Punjab Kings will compete against the Chennai Super Kings at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday.