IPL 2026: Shubman Gill returns as Delhi Capitals opt to bowl first
Delhi Capitals opted to bowl first, banking on successful recent chases and potential pitch moisture. They field an unchanged side. Gujarat Titans welcome back captain Shubman Gill, fit after neck spasms, replacing Kumar Kushagra.
Gill expressed confidence in his recovery and the team's batting approach, setting up an intriguing clash.
Delhi Capitals won the toss and chose to bowl first, sticking to a strategy that has brought them success early in the season. Captain Axar Patel pointed to recent chasing performances and the possibility of moisture in the pitch after rain as key reasons behind the decision. Delhi have gone in unchanged once again, backing the same combination that delivered two wins.
For Gujarat Titans, the big headline is the return of skipper Shubman Gill. The opener, who missed the previous game against Rajasthan Royals due to neck spasms and was seen wearing straps around his shoulder and neck area, is now fit and back at the top of the order. Gill replaces Kumar Kushagra in the only change for Gujarat.
Speaking at the toss, Axar emphasised the plan to assess conditions early and then chase. He noted that the surface is fresh and could assist bowlers upfront, making the decision to field first a logical one. Gill, meanwhile, confirmed that his neck is “much better” and revealed that Gujarat would have preferred to bat first regardless of the toss outcome.