Gujarat Titans Coach Calls for Improved Bowling Consistency After Narrow Loss

In a recent IPL 2026 match, Gujarat Titans faced a narrow defeat against Rajasthan Royals, prompting coach Matthew Hayden to call for greater consistency from his bowlers. Despite a strong start in their chase of 211 runs, the Titans faltered due to a lack of discipline and key moments that shifted the game's momentum. Hayden highlighted the importance of managing extras and the need for better decision-making during crucial phases of the match. As the Titans prepare for their next game against Delhi Capitals, they aim to address these issues and bounce back from consecutive losses.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 5, 2026, 12:38 IST

Gujarat Titans' Close Defeat

Matthew Hayden, the batting coach for Gujarat Titans, emphasized the need for his bowlers to enhance their consistency following a narrow six-run loss to Rajasthan Royals in the IPL 2026 match on Saturday.

Despite a strong position while chasing a challenging target of 211 runs, the Titans fell short. The Royals secured victory thanks to precise death bowling from Jofra Archer and Tushar Deshpande. A significant issue for the Titans was their lack of control, as they conceded nine wides compared to the Royals' three, a difference that mirrored the final score.

Hayden Analyzes Bowling Performance

Hayden acknowledged that his bowlers were not at their best. "Many of our bowlers seemed slightly off their rhythm, particularly in terms of line," he stated during the post-match press conference. He expressed confidence in his leading bowlers, Kagiso Rabada and Rashid Khan, despite their costly performances, suggesting their actual bowling was better than the statistics reflected.

"Rabada's figures were perhaps misleading; I thought he bowled well, and the same goes for Rashid. Siraj simply had an off day. Upon reviewing his pitch map, he was too short and wide, which happens to even great bowlers. Rashid, on the other hand, could have had a more productive day with a couple more wickets to his name, as could Rabada."

Emphasizing Discipline and Fine Margins

Highlighting the narrow margins in T20 cricket, Hayden stressed the importance of discipline, particularly in managing extras. "The margins in these matches are incredibly small; losing by six runs illustrates that clearly," he remarked. "It's crucial for our bowlers to maintain discipline and consistently deliver their best balls."

Batting Challenges Identified

The Titans' issues extended beyond bowling, as their struggle to match the Royals in six-hitting became apparent early in the season. Although they matched or surpassed their opponents in boundaries, the lack of sixes proved detrimental.

"Both teams hit numerous boundaries, but the dot balls were another area of concern in our batting during the last game," Hayden noted. "In our previous match against Punjab Kings, they were significantly better at hitting boundaries, while we excelled in rotating the strike."

Run Chase Breakdown

The Titans seemed to be in control at 103 for 1 after 10 overs, but a collapse initiated by Ravi Bishnoi saw them drop to 161 for 7 within just four overs.

Hayden pointed out critical moments, including decision-making against Bishnoi, as pivotal in the chase. "Washy Sundar faced a significant decision regarding whether to attack Bishnoi, who was in form. This is something he will reflect on to ensure more cohesion in our run chases, as the first 12 overs went quite well overall."

Impact of Key Wickets

He also discussed a crucial run-out involving Shahrukh Khan and Rashid Khan, praising Ravindra Jadeja's quick fielding. "The run-out of Shahrukh Khan was a decision both he and Rashid had to make. I haven't analyzed that play in detail yet, but it appeared that Jadeja's throw was quite far from him, and he managed to gather and release the ball quickly," he explained.

"Those two wickets could have made a significant difference. Again, we are talking about a six-run margin. In T20 cricket, especially when chasing a large total, such small details are vital for a batting unit's decision-making process."

Looking Ahead

After suffering back-to-back defeats, the Gujarat Titans are eager to rebound in their upcoming match against the Delhi Capitals in Delhi.