IPL 2025: GT Wins in a Canter, But Draws Criticism for Selection
There was no earthly reason to drop Washington Sundar
As a match, the GT vs RR encounter at Ahmedabad, never sparked much talk once the local team put up an imposing 217 for 6 in the 20 overs, thanks to Sai Sudharsan's 82 off 53 balls, his third century of the season. (He also had one 49). The RR chase never got going, and only a plucky half-century by Shimron Hetmyer (52 off 32) delayed the inevitable. In the end, RR folded for 159, leaving the Titans winners by a huge margin of 58 --- in T20 it is equivalent to an innings victory.
But the real talking point of the match has to be Washington Sundar's exclusion from the Gujarat Titans' playing XI, and it has sparked significant debate and criticism.
Sundar had a stellar performance in the previous match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, scoring a crucial 49 runs off 29 balls and forming a match-winning partnership with Shubman Gill. Despite this, he was dropped for the game against Rajasthan Royals, leaving fans and analysts puzzled.
Social media erupted with criticism of the decision, with many questioning the logic behind benching a player who had just delivered a standout performance. Some fans even directed their frustration at the team's management, particularly coach Ashish Nehra.
The decision to drop Sundar raises questions about the team's strategy and selection criteria. It sends a potentially demoralising message to players: even exceptional performances might not guarantee a spot in the next game. This could affect team morale and the confidence of individual players.
For the record, Gujarat Titans acquired Sundar for Rs 3.2 Crore at the Auction, for his experience and all-round skills --- but the impact player rule has made all-rounders that much undervalued in the IPL 's scheme of things
Sundar's exclusion highlights a recurring issue in IPL team management — balancing individual brilliance with team strategy. It also underscores the challenges of maintaining transparency and consistency in player selection.
This decision has undoubtedly stirred controversy, and its impact on the team's performance and Sundar's morale will be closely watched in the coming matches.
