The spotlight once again falls on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The 15-year-old made an impact in the previous match with a quick fifty, but that came in a smaller chase. This time, he faces a stronger test against Gujarat’s pace trio of Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna. The contest between youth and experience could define the early overs.
Batting conditions at the Narendra Modi Stadium are expected to allow free strokeplay, which means both teams will aim to either post or chase a big total. Gujarat Titans, if batting first, may need a score in excess of 220, while Rajasthan Royals will look to use their pace attack to put pressure on the opposition.
There are also wider questions around team combination. Gujarat’s middle order has not inspired confidence so far.
Stay with TOI for all the live updates and analysis from the match