GT Vs RR Live, IPL 2025: Sanju Samson Sparks Royals Revival in Big Chase Against GT

Rajasthan Royals began their chase against Gujarat Titans after the latter posted a formidable 217/6 in their 20 overs. Rajasthan was off to a rocky start with early dismissals, making their pursuit a challenging endeavor, but the chase had its fair share of thrilling moments.

Powerplay Struggles for Rajasthan
The initial overs witnessed Rajasthan's top order under duress. Sanju Samson and Yashasvi Jaiswal took guard, but trouble began early as Jaiswal departed at 10/1. In the next over, Nitish Rana's attempt to ramp Mohammed Siraj fell to Kulwant Khejroliya at deep third, reducing Rajasthan to 12/2.

Verifying their grip, Sanju Samson managed a boundary to get started, but by the end of the powerplay, Rajasthan reeled at 57/2 in 6 overs, needing another 161 runs. Riyan Parag played a few aggressive shots, including stylish flicks over mid-wicket for six, but his dismissal at 60/3 added to Rajasthan's woes.

Middle Overs Drama
The middle overs provided some excitement with a blend of boundaries and wickets. Shimron Hetmyer joined Samson, and they tried steadying the ship.

By Over 9.1: Hetmyer launched one over long-on for a six, keeping hopes alive.

However, Rajasthan Royals were 69/4 soon after as Dhruv Jurel, who initially pulled for a boundary, fell promptly to Rashid Khan's deceptive googly.

Strategic play ensued with Sanju Samson and Hetmyer striving to rebuild. The runs started flowing with Samson’s disciplined approach pairing with Hetmyer's power.

The Spin Web
Spinners played a crucial role in slowing down Rajasthan’s effort

- By 10.3 overs, Rajasthan found themselves at 90/4 after Hetmyer smashed a four through covers. But the pressure mounted as Rashid Khan and other Gujarat bowlers continued the strangle.

- The chase was bottlenecked with regular singles and some powerful hits. At halfway through their innings, there was a steep requirement of another 133 runs from 60 balls.

Falling Short
As the chase progressed, the asking rate piled on more pressure on the Royals.

- Samson and Hetmyer attempted to push past. At 85/4 in the 10th over, the mounting pressure led to miscalculations and another wicket fell, disrupting the chase.

- Shimron Hetmyer found his way to boundaries but couldn't convert starts into substantial scores.

During these critical overs, Gujarat's bowlers showcased incredible discipline

- Subdued strategic hits led to quick runs at times, but miscalculations dominated the narrative. The balance tilted in Gujarat’s favor with unwavering bowling and fielding tactics.

Gujarat Titans had posted an impressive total earlier in the game, riding on key partnerships like the one between Sudharsan and Butler scoring 50 off 29 balls, and consistent boundary-hitting in the death overs preserved their dominant position. This substantial innings and disciplined bowling showcased their strategic brilliance, making it a challenging terrain for the Royals.