Jos Buttler and Gerald Coetzee Rejoin Gujarat Titans Ahead of IPL Resumption
Gujarat Titans Welcome Back Key Players
On Wednesday, the Gujarat Titans will see the return of former England captain Jos Buttler and South African fast bowler Gerald Coetzee as they prepare for the continuation of the 18th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), set to resume on May 17.
As reported by a sports news outlet, Buttler and Coetzee were the only international players who departed India following the suspension of the lucrative league last Thursday, which was prompted by escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.
In contrast, other overseas players from the Titans, such as Rashid Khan, Sherfane Rutherford, Kagiso Rabada, and Karim Janat, remained in India with the rest of the team.
Upcoming Matches and Player Availability
Sherfane Rutherford has been selected for the West Indies ODI squad for a three-match series in England, scheduled from May 29 to June 3. This series will coincide with the IPL's revised schedule, which resumes on Saturday and concludes on June 3. Similarly, Buttler is also facing a scheduling conflict as he has been named in England's ODI squad.
Gujarat Titans' Remaining Matches
With three matches left in the group stage, the Gujarat Titans currently lead the table with 16 points, ahead of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru due to a better net run rate. Their next match is against the Delhi Capitals on May 18, followed by two home games against the Lucknow Super Giants on May 22 and the Chennai Super Kings on May 25 in Ahmedabad.
Kolkata Knight Riders' Overseas Players Return
In related news, many overseas players from the Kolkata Knight Riders are anticipated to arrive in Bengaluru between Wednesday night and Thursday morning.
KKR's West Indies contingent, including Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Rovman Powell, and team mentor Dwayne Bravo, have been in Dubai since the tournament's suspension. Wicketkeeper Rahmanullah Gurbaz, currently in Kabul, will travel to Dubai to join them before heading to India.
Additionally, South African bowler Anrich Nortje will join KKR in Bengaluru from the Maldives. Reports indicate that KKR's Indian players and support staff are also expected to arrive on Wednesday.
Kolkata Knight Riders' Playoff Hopes
The defending champions find themselves in a challenging position regarding their title defense. Currently, KKR is in seventh place, with their playoff chances hanging by a thread. They sit sixth in the standings with 11 points, and their remaining matches against Sunrisers Hyderabad and Royal Challengers Bengaluru are crucial for their survival in the tournament.
If KKR secures victories in both matches, they will reach 15 points and will need favorable outcomes in other matches to keep their title hopes alive.