IPL Eliminator: Clash of captains, clash of eras as Hardik Pandya faces Shubman Gill

Dubai: Hardik Pandya vs Shubman Gill. One led India’s white-ball charge; the other is the new face of their red-ball future — and not long ago, they were teammates, with Pandya leading Gujarat to their maiden Indian Premier League title. But tonight, they’re rivals in a high-stakes Eliminator, with one IPL dream about to be cut short.

It’s a do-or-die contest, and both teams have the experience of winning the title and know how to handle the pressure associated with such high-stakes games. However, Mumbai have the edge over Gujarat Titans, whose batting revolves heavily around their top two. Gill is known for thriving in these situations, while it will be a big test for Orange Cap holder Sai Sudharsan.

The match also offers a glimpse into the Tamil Nadu opener’s mental strength — particularly as he gears up to face England in the future. But the left-hander, whose technique and attitude have drawn widespread praise this season, seems focused on the task at hand.

Speaking about his India-A selection at the post-match press conference, Sudharsan said:

“I’m aware that I’m going for the India-A game, so mentally we’ll have to be switched on for IPL first. Once that story is over, then we can probably think about the India-A story. But definitely happy, happy for that opportunity, and I think I would have a great time there.”

He will be thoroughly tested by Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult.

The 2022 champions, Gujarat, will also feel the absence of Jos Buttler, who has returned to national duty for England’s limited-overs series against the West Indies. Another major concern for them is the poor form of Rashid Khan, who is enduring his worst IPL season to date.

On the other hand, five-time champions Mumbai have both the firepower and the experience to sail through today’s contest.

GT seamer Arshad Khan said the team is working hard ahead of the playoffs — reviewing past mistakes and planning for the Eliminator.

“We are making good preparations. We have discussed the mistakes and we are preparing to make it better. And we are planning well,” he said.