Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Mar 19: As the countdown to the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season begins, Gujarat Titans' captain Shubman Gill believes that the evolving pace of the game could soon lead to a team breaching the 300-run mark in a single innings.
Reflecting on the record-breaking feats of IPL 2024, where Punjab Kings successfully chased down 262 against Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad set a tournament-high total of 287/3, Gill sees an upward trend in scoring patterns. The Hyderabad franchise also set a new power-play record with 125/0 against Delhi Capitals.
“The game has reached a stage where scoring 300 in an IPL match feels possible. We came close last year on multiple occasions. The Impact Player rule adds excitement and enhances the league’s entertainment value. One of the most fascinating aspects of the IPL is how a new star emerges every day.
“You get to see underrated talents delivering outstanding performances. With matches happening frequently and constant travel, the momentum plays a huge role. If you're winning, it carries you forward for three, four, or even five matches. But injuries can disrupt everything. Losing key players makes finding the right replacements a challenge.
“Despite these hurdles, IPL remains the most electrifying cricket tournament, and every season brings something fresh for both players and fans,” Gill told JioHotstar.
Recalling his childhood experiences watching the IPL, Gill shared his admiration for cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar, who played for Mumbai Indians.
“I remember going to watch three or four matches with my father at Tau Devi Lal Stadium in Panchkula. During one of the early IPL seasons, Mumbai Indians came there for practice. I must have been around nine or ten years old.
“I even got a picture with Sachin Sir and Glenn Maxwell. I was throwing balls to them during their practice session. I was extremely nervous, but I already knew about Sachin Sir. He was the reason I started playing cricket. My father is his biggest fan. We didn’t have many posters in our house, but Sachin’s poster was always there in our village,” Gill reminisced.
Looking ahead to the upcoming season, Gill emphasized the strengths of Gujarat Titans, who clinched the IPL title in their debut season in 2022. The team will begin their campaign against Punjab Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
“We have a strong fast-bowling attack. Rashid Khan is with us, and we have explosive batters like Rutherford, Philips, and Butler. Some talented Indian players like Mahipal and Sai add depth to our squad. Maintaining balance is key in a long tournament like the IPL.
“Losing two or three matches in a row isn’t a big concern if you’re playing smart cricket and making the right decisions. Consistency in team selection and strategic planning is crucial. The more you rely on probability and logic, the better your chances of qualifying.
“Once you reach the knockout stage, playing with aggression and a positive mindset becomes essential. In all the qualifiers and finals I’ve played, the teams that show intent and confidence have the highest chances of winning,” Gill concluded.