CVC Capital Partners are planning to sell most of their stake in the Gujarat Titans IPL team, valued at around 1-1.5 billion US dollars.

According to The Economic Times, the Luxembourg-based private equity firm is in talks with the Adani Group and Torrent Group about selling a majority of its stake in the Titans.

CVC Capital to Sell Majority Stake in Gujarat Titans

However, CVC Capital Partners will still keep a minority interest after the sale. CVC Capital Partners bought the Gujarat Titans for Rs. 5625 Crores in 2021, a year before the team made its first appearance in the Indian Premier League.There was a four-year lock-in period on the ownership, which is ending soon.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India doesn’t allow franchises to sell their stake before the lock-in period ends.With the lock-in period expiring in February next year, CVC Capital Partners are planning to leave their ownership of the Titans, who won the title in their first attempt.

Both Adani Group and Torrent Group initially showed interest in the franchise, bidding Rs 5,100 crore and 4,653 crore, respectively.

Gujarat Titans: Performance Over the Years

The Gujarat Titans have been very successful in the IPL, reaching the finals twice and winning once in three years.After Hardik Pandya left the franchise for a lucrative 15 Cr deal with Mumbai Indians, GT named young batter Shubman Gill as his successor.However, Shubman Gill had a tough start to his leadership, with the Titans finishing eighth in the ten-team standings.

In a recent interview with The Daily Mail, legendary West Indies cricketer Brian Lara revealed two potential players who might break his famous 400-run record in Test cricket. Lara’s record, achieved in April 2004 against England, remains the highest individual score in Test cricket.

Reflecting on today’s cricket landscape, Lara highlighted the talents of two young Indian cricketers, Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal, as possible contenders to surpass his monumental achievement.

Brian Lara’s historic 400-run innings

Brian Lara’s unbeaten 400 off 582 balls against England at the Antigua Recreation Ground is a landmark in cricket history. Achieved during the fourth Test match in 2004, Lara’s innings surpassed Matthew Hayden’s previous record of 380 runs. This feat solidified Lara’s status as one of cricket’s greatest batter and set a benchmark that has yet to be eclipsed by any active cricketer.

See Also: Replacing Jadeja in T20Is? India star shares honest thoughts

Potential record breakers

Brian Lara named Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal as the players most capable of breaking his 400-run record. According to Lara, these two Indian batters possess the talent, aggression, and capability required to achieve such a monumental task if they find themselves in the right situation.

“How many aggressive players do you have playing today? Especially in the England team. Zak Crawley and Harry Brook. Maybe in the Indian team? Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill. If they find the right situation, the records could be broken – both of them,” Lara said to The Daily Mail.

Shubman Gill: A Rising Star

Shubman Gill has quickly become one of the brightest talents in international cricket. Making his Test debut for India in 2020, Gill has consistently showcased his ability to score runs under pressure. With a highest score of 128 and an average of 35.52 across 25 Test matches, Gill’s potential for big innings is evident.

Yashasvi Jaiswal: The Young Prodigy

Yashasvi Jaiswal’s journey from humble beginnings to the international cricket stage is nothing short of inspirational. At just 22 years old, Jaiswal has already scored two double centuries in his nine-Test career, with a top score of 214 not out. His average of 68.53 and his three hundreds indicate a player with the temperament and skill to challenge Lara’s record.

Comparing the styles of Gill and Jaiswal

Gill and Jaiswal have distinct batting styles that could help them in breaking Lara’s record. Gill’s elegant stroke play and ability to handle fast bowling make him a formidable top-order batters.

In contrast, Jaiswal’s aggressive approach and proficiency against spin bowling allow him to dominate in different conditions. Both players have shown that they can build big innings, an essential trait for breaking a long-standing record.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) is a stage where cricketing talents are tested, scrutinized, and celebrated. Shubman Gill stands out as a promising young opener among the many players who grace this tournament. However, his recent performances in IPL 2024 have raised eyebrows, and it’s time to dissect his struggles.

The Powerplay Enigma

The powerplay overs are crucial in T20 cricket. Openers are expected to capitalize on field restrictions, set the tone, and provide a solid foundation for their team. Unfortunately, Shubman Gill has faltered in this critical phase. His strike rate of 127.34 during the powerplay is well below par, especially compared to his peers, who maintain a minimum of 140. 11 openers have played 100 or more deliveries in the powerplay in IPL 2024. All have maintained a strike rate of 140+ except one.

See Also: Ruturaj and Mitchell’s fifties guide CSK to 200-plus against SRH

Inconsistency in IPL 2024

Let’s delve into Gill’s last five innings:

1. 16 (19) vs RCB: A sluggish start against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) where he failed to accelerate.
2. 6 (5) vs DC: Another underwhelming performance against Delhi Capitals (DC).
3. 35 (29) vs PBKS: A decent knock, but not impactful enough.
4. 8 (6) vs DC: A pattern emerges—struggling to find boundaries.
5. 72 (44) vs RR: Finally, a substantial inning came after a string of disappointments.

The Missing Spark

Gill’s approach lacks aggression during the powerplay. He seems content with rotating the strike rather than seizing the initiative. His inability to find the fence consistently is concerning in a format where boundaries matter. He may need to re-calibrate his mindset and take calculated risks early on.

The Weight of Captaincy

Appointed as Gujarat Titans’ captain, Gill carries additional responsibility. Leadership can either elevate a player’s performance or burden them further. Unfortunately, in Gill’s case, it is the latter. His captaincy record stands at 4 wins and 6 losses, and his personal form has suffered.

Comparisons and Expectations

Remember, Gill was the orange cap winner in IPL 2023, amassing a staggering 890 runs at a strike rate 157.80. Fans expected him to build on that success, but he needs to catch up. The pressure to replicate past glories might be affecting his game.

Gill’s place not confirmed in T2O WC

Amidst the increasing game deformed and huge competition, Shubman Gill is competing with big names like captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Jaiswal for the opening slot. Anyway, the deadline for announcing the initial squad for the T20 World Cup is May 1, with only a few days left. On April 28, BCCI Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar and Indian captain Rohit Sharma met in Delhi. If sources are to be believed, the Indian team will be announced any time soon.

In a remarkable feat during match No.40 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, Gujarat Titans skipper Shubman Gill etched his name in the annals of cricket history by reaching a significant milestone – 100 IPL appearances. Gill’s achievement highlights his exceptional talent and underscores his invaluable contribution to the league.

Gill’s Reflection on Reaching 100 IPL Caps

Shubman Gill emphasized the significance of the achievement in his cricketing journey by expressing his emotions on reaching the remarkable milestone. He acknowledged the support of his teammates and remained focused on the task at hand – leading Gujarat Titans to victory against Delhi Capitals in their upcoming match.

See Also: Usain Bolt becomes the ambassador of Men’s T20 World Cup 2024

Before the toss, Gill received a special memento from GT as the team applauded the youngster for his landmark achievement.

“Means a lot to me (on playing 100 IPL matches), have come a long way, still a long way to go, but the focus is on today’s match. It’s cricket, there’ll always be ups and downs, you want to play the way you’re good at. We’re playing the same side,” Gill said after winning the toss.

Youngest players to 100 matches in IPL

1) Rashid Khan (24y, 221d)

2) Shubman Gill (24y 229d)

3) Virat Kohli (25y, 182d)

4) Sanju Samson (25y, 335d)

5) Piyush Chawla (26y, 108d)

Shubman Gill’s IPL Journey

Shubman Gill has been a pivotal figure in the franchise’s campaign in the IPL 2024 season, taking over the reins from his predecessor, Hardik Pandya, as the captain of Gujarat Titans. His leadership skills and stellar performances on the field have been instrumental in Gujarat Titans’ success.

Gill has joined IPL 2024 captains Hardik, Shreyas Iyer, Sanju Samson and Pant in the list of Indian players with 100 IPL appearances. Gill (24 years and 229 days) is also the second-youngest and fastest Indian to complete 100 matches in the world’s richest T20 league. At 24, Gill eclipsed Kohli to become the youngest Indian to play 100 IPL games. Kohli is followed by Samson (25) and Piyush Chawla (26) on the exclusive list.

Gill’s Performance in IPL

Since his debut in the IPL, Gill has consistently showcased his prowess with the bat, emerging as one of the league’s most promising young talents. His ability to anchor innings and score crucial runs under pressure has earned him worldwide accolades and admiration from cricket enthusiasts.

Released by Kolkata Knight Riders ahead of the IPL 2022, Gill was signed by Gujarat Titans for their debut season. The Indian batter lifted the famous trophy with the GT franchise in the 2022 season. In their title-winning season, Gill emerged as the second-highest run-getter for the Gujarat-based franchise. Gill scored 483 runs in 16 games at an average of 34.50 and a strike rate of 132.33.

In an exhilarating IPL clash at Mullanpur, the Gujarat Titans emerged victorious by three wickets against the Punjab Kings. Despite some tense moments during their chase, Gujarat’s triumph was sealed by a remarkable partnership between Shahrukh Khan and Rahul Tewatia, signaling their return to winning form.

The Punjab Kings, facing a string of defeats, struggled to find their rhythm, especially in the middle overs, which ultimately cost them dearly. With their batting woes persisting, Punjab endured their fourth consecutive home defeat, relegating them to the bottom of the league table.

Gill shines with his captaincy

Spinners played a pivotal role in the match, wreaking havoc on Punjab’s batting lineup and restricting them to a modest total of 142 all out in 20 overs. This set a relatively achievable target of 143 runs for Gujarat, who capitalized on the spin-friendly conditions.

Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Punjab Kings were without their captain Shikhar Dhawan due to injury. Despite some early boundaries from Gill and Saha, Punjab lost crucial wickets at regular intervals, with Livingstone accounting for key dismissals.

Sai Kishore makes the magic

Sai Kishore showcased his bowling prowess as he dismantled the Punjab Kings’ batting lineup with a flurry of wickets. His relentless accuracy and spin variations saw him send Jitesh Sharma and Ashutosh Sharma back to the pavilion, leaving Punjab struggling at 86/5 after 11.4 overs and 92/6 after 13.5 overs respectively. Despite Shahrukh Khan initially seeming to have trapped Harpreet Singh LBW, a successful DRS review overturned the decision, offering Punjab a lifeline. However, Sai Kishore continued his dominance, dismissing Shashank Singh at 99/7 after 15.2 overs and later claiming the wicket of Harpreet Brar at 139/8 after 18.6 overs. Sai Kishore’s stellar performance played a crucial role in restricting Punjab Kings to a modest total.

Rahul Tewatia gives match winning performance

In the second innings, Gujarat Titans encountered some early setbacks but managed to steady their innings with contributions from various batsmen. However, it was Shahrukh Khan’s departure that added some tension to the chase. Yet, with determined efforts from their lower order, Gujarat Titans chased down the target with just five balls to spare, securing a much-needed victory.

Rahul Tewatia’s match-winning performance in the final stages ensures Gujarat Titans clinch a dramatic victory over Punjab Kings, marking a memorable comeback for the team.

See Also: IPL 2024: Fans appreciate Gill’s captaincy against PBKS

This thrilling encounter showcased the resilience and determination of both teams, but it was Gujarat Titans who emerged triumphant, marking a significant turnaround in their IPL campaign.

The clash between Gujarat Titans and Punjab Kings in the IPL 2024 season was nothing short of a roller-coaster ride, filled with exhilarating moments and unexpected twists. Ashutosh Sharma smashed 31 off just 17 balls and Shashank remained unbeaten on 61 off 29 balls to secure a thrilling three-wicket win for Punjab Kings with a ball remaining.

Punjab Kings’ Struggle in the Chase

In pursuit of Gujarat Titans’ challenging target, Punjab Kings encountered early setbacks as most of their top-order batters fell cheaply. The likes of Shikhar Dhawan and Sam Curran failed to make significant contributions, leaving PBKS in a precarious position.

See Also: Indore Police busted IPL betting racket, check report

Shashank Singh’s Spectacular Knock

Amidst Punjab Kings’ struggle, Shashank Singh emerged as the unlikely hero, steering his team towards an improbable victory with a breathtaking innings. The domestic cricket star showcased remarkable batting skills, smashing an unbeaten 61 runs off just 29 balls, comprising 4 sixes and 6 fours.

In a team boasting star players like Dhawan and Curran, it was Shashank Singh who stole the limelight with his outstanding performance. Coming in to bat at a critical juncture when PBKS was struggling at 70/4, Singh’s explosive batting turned the tide in his team’s favor.

Following his match-winning innings, Shashank Singh received widespread acclaim for his brilliant knock. Cricket enthusiasts and experts lauded Singh’s composure under pressure and his ability to deliver when it mattered the most.

This wasn’t the first time Shashank Singh had impressed with his batting skills. In a previous match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, he showcased his talent by scoring a quickfire 21 runs off just 8 balls, further solidifying his reputation as a dependable middle-order batsman.

Shubman Gill’s Heroics for Gujarat Titans

Gujarat Titans’ skipper, Shubman Gill, showcased his batting prowess with a stellar unbeaten knock of 89 runs, guiding his team to a formidable total of 199/4 in 20 overs. Gill’s aggressive batting set the stage for an enthralling contest against Punjab Kings.

The Gujarat Titans vs Punjab Kings encounter in the IPL 2024 season was a thrilling spectacle, showcasing the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket. Shashank Singh’s heroics and Punjab Kings’ remarkable comeback epitomized the essence of this captivating sport.

In the ongoing match between Gujarat Titans (GT) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) at Narendra Modi Stadium, Captain Shubman Gill showcases his prowess by scoring an unbeaten 89* runs, marking the highest individual score of the IPL 2024 season. Rahul Tewatia’s explosive cameo in the final overs propelled GT to a formidable total of 199/4, leaving PBKS bowlers helpless in the face of his onslaught.

IPL Live Score 2024: GT vs PBKS

In a high-octane clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Shubman Gill delivered a masterclass in batting, leaving the audience spellbound with his effortless stroke play and impeccable timing.

See Also: Record-breaking viewership in first 10 matches of IPL 2024

Gill’s innings was a testament to his exceptional talent and skill. Despite facing a formidable PBKS bowling attack, Gill dominated the proceedings with his elegant shot-making and astute decision-making.

The match witnessed several twists and turns, with both teams enjoying moments of ascendancy. However, it was Gill’s consistent performance that tilted the scales in favor of Gujarat Titans (GT) throughout the game. GT’s innings got off to a promising start as Gill and Wriddhiman Saha laid a solid foundation, accumulating 29 runs in just 2.5 overs.

Kane Williamson’s arrival at the crease bolstered GT’s batting lineup, as he combined forces with Gill to form a formidable partnership of 40 runs. Sai Sudharsan showcased his aggressive intent from the outset, providing crucial support to Gill and contributing to a vital 53-run partnership.

Gill’s innings was a sheer delight to watch, as he reached his well-deserved half-century with a shot that exuded class and elegance.

Shubman Gill’s Dominance

Gill’s performance at the Narendra Modi Stadium has been nothing short of spectacular. In 15 innings, he has amassed an impressive total of 825 runs at an astonishing average of 68.75 and a striking strike rate of 159.26. His consistency and dominance with the bat have been instrumental in Gujarat Titans’ success in the tournament.

Shubman Gill at Narendra Modi stadium in IPL:

The Narendra Modi Stadium witnessed a breathtaking display of cricketing brilliance as Shubman Gill showcased his impeccable batting skills against Punjab Kings (PBKS). Let’s dive into the details of Gill’s outstanding performance and the thrilling match at hand.

9(8), 43(38), 45(43), 63(36), 39(31), 39(31), 45(34), 56(34), 6(7), 94(51), 101(58), 129(60), 39(20), 31(22), 36(28), 89*(48).

15 innings, 825 runs, 68.75 average, 159.26 Strike Rate

Highest individual scores in IPL 2024
89*S Gill vs PK Ahmedabad
85 S Narine vs DC Vizag
84*R Parag vs DC Jaipur
83*V Kohli vs KKR Bengaluru
82*S Samson vs LSG Jaipur

The stage is set for an exhilarating encounter between the Mumbai Indians (MI) and the Gujarat Titans (GT) in the IPL 2024, and fervent supporters are already in full swing, echoing chants and anticipation at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.

Anticipation for the Clash

The atmosphere outside the stadium is electric as fans clad in MI’s iconic blue jerseys flood the venue, generating a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation for the impending showdown.

New Captains, New Dynamics

Both teams enter the match with new leadership, as Hardik Pandya takes the reins for MI and Shubman Gill leads the charge for GT. This change in leadership adds an intriguing dynamic to the clash.

Rohit Sharma: The Center of Attention

Despite the shuffle in captaincy, all eyes remain fixated on Rohit Sharma, the legendary batter who has been synonymous with MI’s success for years. His presence adds an extra layer of excitement to the match.

Outside the stadium, the sea of blue signifies the unwavering support for MI, with fans showcasing their allegiance through flags, jerseys, and chants of “Rohit,” painting a vibrant picture of unity and passion. The history between MI and GT is rife with close encounters, adding to the stakes of the match as both teams vie for a victorious start to their IPL 2024 campaign.

The Titans’ Anticipation

GT’s recent victory over MI, with Shubman Gill’s stellar century, adds an extra layer of intrigue to the clash as both teams prepare to renew their rivalry on the field. The Titans’ camp pulsates with anticipation as they aim to replicate their previous success and establish dominance in the IPL 2024 season.

As the excitement reaches a crescendo, the stage is set for a thrilling showdown between MI and GT, with fans eagerly awaiting the spectacle unfolding on the cricketing field.

Gujarat Titans witnessed a significant shift in team dynamics post the 2023 IPL, primarily due to the departure of former captain Hardik Pandya. The team now looks toward a new leadership era under Shubman Gill.

Impact of Hardik Pandya’s Departure

Pandya’s departure marked the end of an era characterized by his emphasis on team unity over individual brilliance. His leadership guided the Titans to consecutive final appearances, leaving behind a legacy of cohesive teamwork.

New Leadership: Shubman Gill:

With the captaincy mantle passed to Shubman Gill, Gujarat Titans aim to maintain their competitive edge in IPL 2024. Gill’s exceptional batting prowess, coupled with his leadership qualities, positions him as a promising captain for the team.

Challenges Due to Mohammed Shami’s Absence

The absence of Mohammed Shami, last year’s Purple Cap winner, poses a challenge to the Titans’ bowling attack. However, Umesh Yadav’s inclusion and the potential of R. Sai Kishore offer opportunities for the team to adapt and excel.

The Titans’ fortunes rely heavily on the performances of recent recruits Shahrukh Khan and Spencer Johnson, along with seasoned campaigners like Wriddhiman Saha and David Miller. Additionally, with players like Rashid Khan and Rahul Tewatia, the squad’s depth ensures versatility and adaptability.

Best Playing XI for Gujarat Titans

The ideal playing XI for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2024 comprises a blend of experience and youth, with each player bringing unique strengths to the team. From batting stalwarts like Shubman Gill to bowling maestros like Rashid Khan, the XI promises a formidable challenge to opponents.

Gujarat Titans Probable Playing XI: Shubman Gill (C), Wriddhiman Saha (WK), Kane Williamson, Sai Sudharsan, David Miller, Rashid Khan, Mohit Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Rahul Tewatia, Spencer Johnson, Shahrukh Khan

Impact Player: Noor Ahmad

GT players bought at IPL 2024 auction: Azmatullah Omarzai (Rs. 50 lakh), Umesh Yadav (Rs. 5.80 crore), Shahrukh Khan (Rs. 7.40 crore), Sushant Mishra (Rs. 2.20 crore), Kartik Tyagi (Rs. 60 lakh), Manav Suthar (Rs. 20 lakh), Spencer Johnson (Rs. 10 crore), Robin Minz (3.60 crore).

GT IPL 2024 SQUAD COMPOSITION

Wicketkeepers: Mathew Wade (AUS), Wriddiman Saha, Robin Minz.

Batters: Shubman Gill, David Miller (SA), Abhinav Manohar, Kane Williamson (NZ), Sai Sudharsan.

All-rounders: Rashid Khan (AFG), Rahul Tewatia, Jayant Yadav, Vijay Shankar, Azmatullah Omarzai (AFG), Darshan Nalkande, Shahrukh Khan.

Bowlers: Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Josh Little (IRE), R. Sai Kishore, Mohit Sharma, Noor Ahmad (AFG), Sushant Mishra, Kartik Tyagi, Manav Suthar, Spencer Johnson (AUS).

In the bustling world of Indian Premier League cricket, Gujarat Titans find themselves under new leadership, with Shubman Gill succeeding Hardik Pandya as the franchise’s captain. This transition comes at a crucial juncture for the team, which has reached the final in each of its two years in the tournament.

Shubman Gill: A New Captain

Gill’s ascension to captaincy marks a significant shift for the Gujarat Titans. Widely recognized as one of the best batters in the world, especially in limited-overs cricket, Gill brings a wealth of talent and potential to the leadership position. His recent performances in Test cricket, including a stellar showing against England with 452 runs in the series, underscore his versatility and growing stature in the cricketing world.

See Also: “Players know how to keep their egos aside…”: Dale Steyn on MI captaincy debate in IPL 2024

Intrigue Surrounding Gill’s Captaincy

Despite his prowess with the bat, Gill’s elevation to the captaincy raises intriguing questions about his leadership capabilities. With limited experience at the helm at the game’s highest levels, there’s an air of curiosity about how Gill will navigate his new role. Ashish Nehra, the Titans’ head coach, expressed excitement about Gill’s approach, emphasizing the importance of his personal growth alongside his development as a captain.

“All of India, not just me. He’s someone who wants to compete in all three forms and play well. We are therefore eager to assist him in developing as a person rather than just a captain as a franchise and support team. He will be a better captain down the road if he develops as a person,” Nehra said.

Comparison with Hardik Pandya’s Captaincy

Gill’s journey as captain parallels Hardik Pandya’s tenure at Gujarat Titans. Like Gill, Pandya stepped into the captaincy role without extensive prior experience. Nehra highlights this trend, noting the emergence of new leaders in the IPL and the opportunities it presents for players to evolve both on and off the field.

Nehra added, ” Hardik had never led anywhere before leading GT. Currently, ten teams exist. This is not the initial instance. You’ll notice an increasing number of people, such as Shreyas Iyer and Nitish Rana, who captained KKR. All of these guys are having a fantastic time, so let’s see who can take advantage of that and advance again, first as a person then as a player.”

Gill’s Contribution as a Batter

Beyond his leadership responsibilities, Gill remains a vital asset to the Titans as a batter. His impressive IPL record, amassing 1373 runs at a striking rate of 147.79 over the past two years, underscores his ability to make significant contributions with the bat. With the added responsibility of captaincy, expectations are high for Gill to continue his batting exploits while leading the team effectively.