Gujarat Titans rebounded strongly after their defeat to Kolkata Knight Riders, securing a six-wicket victory against Punjab Kings. Shubman Gill delivered an outstanding performance with the bat, providing a strong foundation for the team.
Rahul Tewatia’s contribution towards the end of the game proved vital in helping Gujarat Titans move up to third place on the IPL Points table. Additionally, Mohit Sharma, the experienced fast bowler, impressed everyone by claiming two wickets and conceding only 18 runs in his four overs.
It is worth noting that Mohit Sharma had played his last IPL match for Delhi Capitals in 2020. However, in 2022, he was selected as a net bowler by the Gujarat Titans. During the auction, the defending champions made a bid for the seasoned pacer and awarded him his first IPL contract in three years. Sharma responded to their faith in him by delivering a valuable performance, which cemented his place in the playing XI.
After the match, Sharma spoke to the host broadcaster and discussed his conversation with head coach Ashish Nehra before signing with the Gujarat Titans. He also reflected on his return to the Indian Premier League, the most prominent event in domestic cricket.
Mohit Sharma admitted that he was excited but also nervous about returning to the Indian Premier League after a gap of a few years, although he had been playing domestic cricket during that time. He mentioned that he had even played after returning from a back surgery the previous year, but not many people knew about it.
Ashish Nehra, the head coach of the Gujarat Titans, had invited him to stay with the team, which Sharma accepted, as he thought it would be better than sitting at home. Sharma also acknowledged the benefits of being a net bowler, as it provides a lot of exposure. Finally, he praised the fantastic environment at Gujarat Titans.
“There was excitement but also nervousness about making a comeback after a few years. Have played domestic cricket in between. Last year I played domestic returning from a back surgery. Not many people knew I played domestic. Got a call from Ashu Pa to stay with the team. (Mujhe laga ghar baithkey bhi kya karunga) I thought it would be better than staying at home (about being a net bowler for GT last year). Being a net bowler is not a bad thing. Gives you a lot of exposure. The environment at GT is brilliant,” said Sharma.
The home team batted first and managed to score 153 runs, which was considered below-par due to a lacklustre performance from their batters. However, their bowlers stepped up and kept Punjab Kings in the game until the penultimate delivery.
Unfortunately for them, Rahul Tewatia played a crucial role in securing the win for the Gujarat Titans. Punjab Kings will face off against the Lucknow Super Giants in their next match, while the Gujarat Titans will host the Rajasthan Royals.