On Saturday evening (March 29), Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians (GT vs MI) will face each other in the ninth match of the IPL 2025, which Narendra Modi Stadium (Ahmedabad) will host. Now, let's check the Dream11 top captains and vice-captains for the GT vs MI match. 

The Gujarat Titans (GT) vs. Mumbai Indians (MI) match is set for March 29, 2025, at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. Both teams are elated in anticipation of grabbing their first win of the season, shaping the aesthetic for this match to be even more engrossing.

Match Details – IPL 2025

• Match: Gujarat Titans (GT) vs Mumbai Indians (MI)
• Date: 29th March 2025 
• Time: 7:30 PM IST
• Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
• Live Streaming: JioStar & Star Sports Network

Also read:IPL 2025 GT vs MI : player battles to watch out

 Weather and Pitch Condition:

Weather Condition:

• The Ahmedabad forecast promises skies that are clear throughout the game, and the temperature hovering between 31 and 37 degrees guarantees no rain holdups.
• 11% (Humidity)
• No rain is predicted, ensuring an uninterrupted match.

Pitch Forecast:

• Known for its batting-rich track, the Narendra Modi Stadium is likely to produce another high-scoring game because of the expected bounce and pace, which is favorable for aggressive batting. 
• As the match shifts toward the end, spinners may get some help due to the pitch slowing down.

Also read:IPL 2025: CSK vs RCB at Chepauk: A head-to-head breakdown

Mahendra Singh Dhoni's exceptional calmness on the cricket pitch earned him the nickname ‘Captain Cool.’ However, even the greatest leaders can find themselves in a displeasing situation. A good example of this was shared by Michael Hussey, batting coach of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), during the IPL 2018 Qualifier 1 against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH). His experience shocked many since he did not expect Dhoni to act that way. When it comes to Dhoni, his mindset assures that trusting one’s intuition is better than analyzing the situation.

The Rashid Khan Incident:

When Dhoni Brushed Off Data Just prior to the match, Hussey received some analysis of Rashid Khan's attack. As he prepared to deliver a googly the sign revealing his fingers, they were together which was the reason he would typically throw a leg-break, and they were split. Hussey was in two minds as to whether to give his players this last-gasp informational punch, but in the end he decided that it must be shared with his team including Dhoni.

 When CSK were chest-deep in a tense chase, it looked like they needed a miracle. Dhoni strolled in with the team appearing to be in trouble. Unfortunately for him, one ball in from Rash, and it was over later for Dhoni – he tried a stunning cover drive, over the gully, off a googly and was bowled over instead. He came out to the Chapel looking fuming and shot a look straight to Hussey after he got down – "Thanks, but I will bat however I want," he remarked while taking a seat.

Dhoni controls his aggression on the cricket field so that he can abuse his teammates after his own failure and break TVs after the team's failure 😭😭 pic.twitter.com/JKr1DofIUi

— Vivek (@hailKohli18) March 8, 2025

ALSO READ:Sunrisers Hyderabad’s Exciting Offer for IPL 2025 Fans

Dhoni, despite this rare incident of frustration:

Has always led with the calmness and coolness of a self-disciplined captain. He believes that performances speak louder than anything else and will refrain from sledging or verbal aggression. It is this ability to handle pressure without losing his cool that has set him apart as one of cricket's finest leaders through the ages.

It goes to show that Dhoni still trusted his instincts and experience implicitly; data and all the strategy math notwithstanding, intuition and self-belief will always be a better option in high-pressure scenarios. 

Afghanistan's rise in cricket is no mere an inspirational story. The country which always evolved around wars and internal conflicts has found his unity in cricket. In early 90 most of the Afghan cricketers started their journey from Pakistan where they were necessary training and other valuable insights. The growth was slow but impactful. After the charge of Taliban though they were allowed to play cricket. 

In 2001 Afghanistan became an affiliate member of the ICC and was competing with Scotland, and Zimbabwe which persuaded them to absorb the international aspects of cricket. Soon BCCI too helped with necessary aspects by providing training grounds and playing series with them to encourage their strength. 

Read More: The Roar Of Most Balanced Side VS Most Consistent Side In Champions Trophy

Arrival In Big Arena

 Afghanistan gained their ODI status in 2015 when they took part in the World Cup too and it was their first exposure to the grand stage. Though they exited in the group stage they achieved the feat that all other associate nations strive for, Mohammad Nabi is a great example who has seen the growth of the team struggling from hard to the grand stage of the World Cup through words it might be looking easy but the action requires patience which paid them off well. 

 The younger generation too carried the legacy more often Rashid Khan, Gulbadin Naib, and Sahidi, they all contributed to the betterment of the team. In 2017 Afghanistan became a full member of the ICC gaining its test status too. As the flow of cricket flooded Afghanistan team tended to play more bilateral series too. The 2019 and 2023 World Cups were huge advantages to them as they didn't participate but even defeated big teams like England and Pakistan.

Champions Trophy Mere Twist

Even in this Champions Trophy edition they have exempted their skills. They played their first match against South Africa they gave the good display of game but South Africa were way ahead of them. Their second match against England was a comeback which kept their hopes alive in the tournament where they beat England second time in the 50 over format. Afghanistan won the thrilling encounter by 8 runs. 

Read More: Once Again Afghanistan And Australia Face Other In Quater Final

 As the South Africa and Australia match was cancelled due to rain it became a virtual quarter-final between Afghanistan and Australia as South Africa made it into the semis with a better run rate. Yesterday's match between Afghanistan and Australia was too detained by rain with no result. By this Australia moved to semis by a better run rate. Afghanistan has the thinnest chance which is quite impossible where England has to beat South Africa by 207 margin or finish the match within 11 overs whatever the target set by South Africa and we all know it's not impossible. The confidence of Afghanistan players would have been pretty high and the future of their cricket seems to be bright like a shining star. 

SA20 2025 LIVE STREAMING DETAILS:

The excitement is palpable as the SA20 2025 final is fast approaching, with cricket fans worldwide. South Africa has its premier T20 league that has so far offered a roller coaster of action and suspense. Here's where you can find how to watch the SA20 final live

• Match Date: February 8, 2025
  Time: 9:00 PM IST
  Venue: Johannesburg

TOSS TIMING:8:30 PM

Where to Watch SA20 Live – TV & Streaming Platforms

ALSA READ:CCL 2025: Where & How to Watch the Match online & on tv Live streaming local channel

🔥 SA20 FINAL SHOWDOWN! 🔥
It's MI Cape Town 🆚 Sunrisers Eastern Cape in the grand finale! 🏆 Who's taking the crown? Drop your predictions! 👇⚡ #SA20 #SA20Final #CricketLovers #MICapeTown #SunrisersEasternCape #T20Action pic.twitter.com/YAHds8eY0v

— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) February 8, 2025

MI CAPE TOWN

In an era of aggressive T20 cricket that constantly puts boundaries on tape and speeds up boundaries more often than not you have had one bowler who has stood tall and made an old soul Rashid Khan. Yes, he is more than just a leg-spinner who works magic on the ball and a revolutionary of spin bowling in this format.
A Journey of Hard Work

tales about Rashid Khan are about struggle and self-belief. Born in Afghanistan, if there were cricket brains in Kabul only 50 in number and those countries boasting of limited chance for the game was a struggle not to have an identity. The transformation from local to a T20 global superstar is nothing more than a fluke. The story he tells shows that if you are passionate, hardworking, and dedicated you can turn your dreams into reality.

Top Wicket-Takers in T20 

ALSO READ:12-year-old student in Kanpur: Cricket coach drugged, sexually assaulted

A Record-Breaking Career

Rashid is definitely the best-ever T20 bowler of all time. Holding 631 wickets in 460 matches he is synonymous to the game. I know I am special because it is not all about the number of wickets but how he gets them. His economy rate of 6.49 says it all, he is accurate as hell with the ball and that is very hard to find in a format where runs come at break neck speed.

With a bowling average of 18.08, Rashid is not simply another bowler who play in the way of runs, he has proven himself not only as a reliable 'ferocious' wicket source but also a partner breaker and match transformer in Test Cricket. Optimum getting the beat, deceptive googly and outthink batsmen make him one of the most dangerous spinners worldwide.

RASHID KHAN COMPLETED 600 WICKETS IN T20...!!! 🤯

- He is just 25 years old. pic.twitter.com/FYJgZOGm8I

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) July 30, 2024

Following a dismal previous edition, Gujarat Titans (GT), led by Shubman Gill, would look to rebound in IPL 2025. GT acquired numerous high-quality players in the big auction, leading to ticking all the boxes. Previously, they kept five players. GT's retention of Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan, Rashid Khan, Shahrukh Khan, and Rahul Tewatia was a no-brainer.

Overall, GT is an intriguing team with talented players in its ranks. The Titans are expected to perform well with a strong and seasoned team this season. GT has covered most of its bases, and the 2022 winners appear in good shape. That said, here we look at the major strengths and weakness of the 2025 version of Gujarat Titans.

Gujarat Titans 2025 IPL Squad: Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan, Shahrukh Khan, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Jos Buttler, Mohammed Siraj, Kagiso Rabada, Prasidh Krishna, Washington Sundar, Sherfane Rutherford, Gerald Coetzee, Glenn Phillips, Sai Kishore, Mahipal Lomror, Karim Janat, Gurnoor Brar, Arshad Khan, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Kumar Kushagra, Nishant Sindhu, Manav Suthar, Anuj Rawat, Kulwant Khejroliya.

2 Strengths:

Sorted and formidable top-order batting

Looking at the GT top-order batting lineup, they have firepower throughout. While Jos Buttler and Shubman Gill are at the top, while the English batter can provide energy, Gill will bring stability. Following these two hitters, Sai Sudharsan can routinely provide for the Titans. GT's consistency and aggression among the top three players can potentially hinder even the best opposition bowlers.

As a result, one should anticipate GT to get off to a solid start more frequently than not. Thus, we can see that the club has ample firepower across the lineup. If their batters click, they will not have to worry about losing momentum across their batting timeline, which can be backed up by their promising middle order with the proper set of batters against the varied opposition. 

Perfect variety of pace bowling options

Several pacers of the revamped side contribute depth, diversity, and dynamism to the Titans' bowling attack. With Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj and Gerald Coetzee, they have their new ball assault in place. Ishant Sharma, with his vast experience, can be pivotal. Aside from a well-organised and strong new ball assault, they have pacers who can be helpful in the death overs. 

Kagiso Rabada and Mohammed Siraj will again be the leaders in this situation because they possess a wide range of skills, experience, and reliability. In addition, Prasidh Krishna, Ishant Sharma, and Kulwant Khejroliya can also provide productive overs in the death overs. In addition, Afghanistan's emerging all-rounder, Karim Janat, adds variety to the ranks, whose medium pace can be utilised to the fullest. 

1 Weakness:

Lack of a reliable finisher or middle-order batter

Gujarat Titans have a solid top order but lack a reliable player who can bolster the middle order and finish the games, as they also play a pivotal role in changing the game's momentum. While Rahul Tewatia has shown promise under pressure, the club still needs a player who can consistently perform in difficult situations. Shahrukh Khan and Anuj Rawat have talent and calibre but has yet to establish as consistent finishers, particularly when chasing high totals or when the top order falters. 

Similarly, Sherfane Rutherford has shown potential in his early international career but has yet to distinguish himself in the IPL format. This lineup gap might be difficult for the Gujarat Titans during crucial times of the forthcoming season.

Afghanistan Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025: A Detailed Look

Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has unveiled its 15-member squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which will take place in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9. The squad represents a perfect mix of experienced campaigners and young talents ready to shine on the global stage.

Let’s delve into the profiles of the selected players and analyze their roles in Afghanistan’s pursuit of Champions Trophy glory.

The Squad Breakdown

Batting Core

1. Ibrahim Zadran (Top-order batter)
   Known for his solid technique and temperament, Ibrahim Zadran is Afghanistan's go-to player for anchoring innings in challenging conditions.

2. Sediqullah Atal (Top-order batter)
   A promising young batter, Atal brings aggression and flair to Afghanistan's top-order lineup.

3. Hashmatullah Shahidi (Captain) (Middle-order batter)
   As the team captain, Shahidi’s calm leadership and dependable batting in the middle overs will be crucial for Afghanistan’s campaign.

4. Rahmat Shah (Vice-Captain) (Middle-order batter)
   Rahmat adds stability and experience to the middle order, ensuring that the team has a solid platform to build competitive totals.

Wicketkeepers

5. Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Wicketkeeper-batter)
   A dynamic opening batter with an explosive approach, Gurbaz is equally skilled behind the stumps.

6. Ikram Alikhil (Wicketkeeper-batter)
   A technically sound wicketkeeper and a handy batter, Ikram offers a backup option for the team.

All-rounders

7. Gulbadin Naib
   With his ability to contribute with both bat and ball, Naib is a versatile asset to the team.

8. Mohammad Nabi
   The veteran all-rounder and former captain continues to be a match-winner for Afghanistan, offering sharp off-spin and lower-order batting strength.

9. Azmatullah Omarzai
   A rising star, Omarzai combines medium-pace bowling with hard-hitting lower-order batting.

10. Rashid Khan
    A superstar of global cricket, Rashid Khan is Afghanistan’s biggest weapon. His leg-spin, combined with his batting skills, makes him an invaluable asset.

Spin Arsenal

10. AM Ghazanfar
    A promising young spinner, Ghazanfar provides depth to Afghanistan's already impressive spin attack.

11. Noor Ahmad
    Another emerging talent, Noor Ahmad’s left-arm unorthodox spin offers a variation that can trouble the opposition.

Pace Department

13. Fazalhaq Farooqi (Fast bowler)
    The spearhead of Afghanistan’s pace attack, Farooqi’s ability to swing the ball both ways makes him a potent threat.

14. Naveed Zadran (Fast bowler)
    A fiery pacer, Naveed provides extra pace and bounce, complementing the team’s bowling unit.

15. Farid Ahmad Malik (Fast bowler)
    A reliable left-arm pacer, Farid adds variety to Afghanistan’s pace attack.

Reserves

• Darwish Rasooli (Middle-order batter): A promising batter waiting for his opportunity.
• Nangyal Kharoti (Spin bowler): A young spinner with potential to contribute if called upon.
• Bilal Sami (Fast bowler): A backup option to bolster the pace department when needed.

Afghanistan squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 

Happy with our 15-member #AfghanAtalan lineup for the ICC Champions Trophy!? 🤩🏆#ChampionsTrophy 🔗: https://t.co/uZfvLZ8U8D pic.twitter.com/7bmUJuzHFb

— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) January 12, 2025

Afghanistan Fixtures at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025:

ALSO READ:IPL 2025 Schedule: Tournament Set to Start from March 23, Announces BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla

Afghanistan's cricket group had to make some moves to change things after facing big challenges. For their match in Bulawayo against Zimbabwe, they decided to change the order and made five changes to their lineup. They're working very hard to get that win now. In addition, they're welcoming back their captain, Rashid Khan, who missed the first test due to some personal matters he had to deal with.

ALSO READ:Virat Kohli's first-ball survival creates controversy

After making it to the semi-finals for the first time ever at the T20 World Cup, Afghanistan faced a tough loss, losing to South Africa with nine wickets to spare. The group was really hoping to bounce back from that hard time, and Rashid stepping up as a leader gave them new energy. When the match was over, Rashid showed how much he and the team felt about it all - they were proud but knew they had to be better for the next time.

The game against Zimbabwe isn't simply any match it's a chance for Afghanistan to really prove how tough they are and how far they've come in cricket. They're mixing up who is playing, bringing in some new players, and it's a smart and informed play to uncover new talent and make the team better.

The team can't wait to get Rashid Khan back they're excited and it's making them want to try harder and improve. A series attempts them to demonstrate how skilled they are and to put in the hard work, all while making cricket a larger issue in Afghanistan. As they hit the field, it's not only just about them - they're also carrying the hopes of their country and shooting for a brighter future in cricket.

While Afghanistan just completed their close T20I series victory against the hosts Zimbabwe, they are now ready for the ODI series. Meanwhile, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has announced the Test squad for the upcoming Test series against the hosts Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe are set to host a two-match Test series against Afghanistan. While the Test series opener has been set for Boxing Day, the second Test will be the New Year Test. Queens Sports Club (Bulawayo) will host both the Test matches. 

Afghanistan lost both Tests in 2024

Afghanistan have played two Tests this year, where they suffered defeats against the hosts Sri Lanka and against Ireland in Abu Dhabi. They also had another Test scheduled against New Zealand at Greater Noida, which was completely washed out without a toss. Out of their nine overall Tests, Afghanistan won three games and lost six Tests. 

In March 2021, Afghanistan hosted two Tests against Zimbabwe in Abu Dhabi. After losing the first Test by 10 wickets, the Afghans beat the Chevrons by six wickets in the next Test.

Seven uncapped players in the Afghanistan Test squad

The ACB has announced an 18-member full squad for the upcoming away Test series against Zimbabwe. Seven uncapped players have been named in this squad. 

Allrounder Ismat Alam, left-arm spinner Zahir Shehzad, and left-arm quick Bashir Ahmad Afghana are the fresh names in the Afghanistan national team squad. Meanwhile, the other four uncapped Test players are Azmatullah Omarzai, Fareed Ahmad Malik, Riaz Hassan, and Sediqullah Atal, who have white-ball experiences for the national team. 

See Also: Jasprit Bumrah achieves new Test milestone after a six-fer in Brisbane

Rashid Khan last played a Test in March 2021

Rashid Khan, who has played five Tests, is returning to the longer format after more than three years. He last played a Test match in March 2021 when they beat Zimbabwe for the first time. 

Afghanistan's complete Test squad for Zimbabwe tour

Hashmatullah Shahidi (Captain), Rahmat Shah (vice-captain), Ikram Alikhail (wk), Afsar Zazai (wk), Riaz Hassan, Sediqullah Atal, Abdul Malik, Baheer Shah Mahboob, Ismat Alam, Azmatullah Omarzai, Zahir Khan, Zia Ur Rehman Akbar, Zahir Shehzad, Rashid Khan, Yamin Ahmadzai, Bashir Ahmad Afghan, Naveed Zadran, and Fareed Ahmad Malik