Why is Kagiso Rabada not part of the playing XI for Gujarat Titans vs RCB?

Gujarat Titans (GT) skipper Shubman Gill won the toss and chose to bowl first in the 14th game of the Indian Premier League (IPL) against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). This is the first match at home for RCB, as fans welcomed the two sides to the ground with a deafening roar. The hosts went in with the same side that had beaten Chennai Super Kings in the last encounter. 

The Titans meanwhile, made one change to their side from the last game against Mumbai Indians at home. South African pacer Kagiso Rabada is missing the game due to ‘personal reasons’ as revealed by skipper Shubman Gill at the toss. Mohammad Arshad Khan who had played the opening game versus Punjab Kings was drafted into the playing XI. 

Bengaluru are top of the points tables with four points from two games. Rajat Patidar began the season with a win over Kolkata Knight Riders and then beat CSK in the first two away encounters. Their win over CSK at Chepauk was RCB’s first since 2008. Gujarat Titans began with a loss at home to Punjab Kings before beating Mumbai Indians last week. 

Can GT stop RCB’s juggernaut?

The last time these two sides met in the IPL at the same venue, it was RCB who won the game by four wickets. In the previous encounter, Will Jacks’ century had flattened the Titans at home as RCB posted an easy win. Shubman Gill will have good memories of the ground as he scored a century in the IPL 2023 fixture. 

Speaking at the toss, GT’s skipper said, “Looks like a good wicket. We've seen the conditions don't change much. We're all about reducing our unforced errors. We'll try to fine-tune the areas that need it.” Rajat Patidar said, “Would've bowled first as well because it's a new surface. It's pretty hard and won't change much. The way boys are chipping in gives a lot of confidence as a captain. We love this crowd. The way they love us and the support we've always received is incredible.”

Interestingly, GT have named just two overseas stars in their side for the game against RCB. Jos Buttler and Rashid Khan are in the starting XI while Sherfane Rutherford and Glenn Phillips have been named in the substitute list. Mohammed Siraj who played eight seasons for RCB is set to play his first game against his former side.