Gujarat Titans’ middle-order concerns were put to rest in emphatic fashion by Washington Sundar, whose unbeaten cameo helped the franchise complete a challenging chase against Punjab Kings. The knock also drew praise from former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who highlighted how the innings answered questions about the GT batting unit’s ability to hold its shape under pressure.
Batting at number five, Washington struck 40 not out from 23 deliveries. His effort was laced with five boundaries and a six, and it proved decisive as Gujarat chased down 164 with a ball remaining to keep their season campaign firmly alive in the race for the play-offs. After the match, Ashwin said the impact went beyond the runs, pointing to the broader message it sent about depth in the squad.
“Washington Sundar’s innings was extremely important because it addressed a key question around Gujarat Titans’ middle order,” Ashwin said. He was particularly impressed by the composure Washington showed to finish the chase, adding that it gives team management confidence in using him as a flexible option depending on match situations.
Ashwin also underlined that while Gujarat’s top three often provide the bulk of the scoring, contributions from batters lower down the order demonstrate the team’s overall strength. In his view, Washington “stepped up”, managed the pressure effectively, and ensured that the target was reached without the chase drifting off course.
“It might not have looked flashy, but it was a very composed and clinical effort to get the team over the line,” Ashwin added.
Why the chase worked for GT
Ashwin further explained that targets in the region of 164 can be difficult to chase in the IPL, where the margin for error tends to shrink quickly as overs tick by. What, in his assessment, sets Gujarat Titans apart is their structured approach—one that is tailored to the conditions rather than chasing a one-size-fits-all game plan.
He noted that GT often appear steady rather than overtly explosive during their innings, but that steadiness is purposeful. According to Ashwin, the key is their methodical batting style, shaped by a clear understanding of the pitch and match environment.
“On pitches like these, where 160–170 is a competitive score, it is about controlling the game and executing your plans rather than chasing big numbers,” he said. Ashwin also pointed to how consistently Gujarat have followed this approach over the years, crediting both the management and the players for staying committed to the process and delivering under pressure.
