The Gujarat Titans (GT) are gearing up for their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 Qualifier 2 match against Rajasthan Royals (RR), with a clear focus on countering the threat posed by RR’s rising star Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Speaking ahead of the encounter scheduled for Friday in New Chandigarh, GT assistant coach Parthiv Patel acknowledged Sooryavanshi’s outstanding form this season while emphasizing the team’s preparations to dismiss the young batsman early in the game.

“Sooryavanshi has been a phenomenal talent, just the way he has been playing,” Patel said. “From the opposition’s point of view, we hope that he doesn’t get going tomorrow.” The 19-year-old batsman has been one of the standout performers in the tournament, accumulating 680 runs in 15 innings at an average of 45.33, with a strike rate of 142.85. His tally includes a century, four fifties, and a best score of 103. Sooryavanshi’s aggressive style is reflected in the 55 fours and 65 sixes he has hit off 280 balls.

Patel indicated that the Titans have analyzed extensive video footage of Sooryavanshi and have devised specific plans to tackle him, though he refrained from disclosing the details, stating that the execution on the field will be crucial. “Like all the teams, we have seen the videos. Hopefully, we will be able to execute our plan,” he said.

In addition to focusing on Sooryavanshi, Patel highlighted the value of West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder for GT’s campaign. Holder’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball, especially his utility in the powerplay and middle overs, has been a key factor in strengthening the team’s balance. “After that decision, a lot of things changed for us, and we are glad that Jason Holder has performed in this way,” Patel noted.

Patel also expressed confidence in the capabilities of star leg-spinner Rashid Khan, despite the challenges Khan has faced this season due to injury recovery. The Afghan spinner has taken 19 wickets in 15 matches, maintaining an average of 23.47 and an economy rate of 8.77, which includes a four-wicket haul. “Rashid doesn’t need any kind of introduction,” Patel said. “He has had a tough season coming out of injury, but he has recovered well and has been bowling brilliantly. He is extremely hungry to perform in pressure situations, which makes him a vital asset for the team.”

The winner of Friday’s Qualifier 2 will advance to the IPL final against defending champions Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), with both Gujarat Titans and Rajasthan Royals aiming to secure their place in the title clash.