Hayden calls for sharper execution after GT’s narrow loss

Gujarat Titans batting coach Matthew Hayden has stressed the importance of discipline and consistency after his side’s narrow six-run loss to Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2026.

GT’s performance was undone by fine margins, with nine wides compared to RR’s three proving costly in a tight contest. Hayden acknowledged that such lapses, though seemingly small, can make the difference in high-scoring T20 matches.

“I felt like a lot of our bowlers were just a little bit off their rhythm and their line,” Hayden said, pointing to issues with execution rather than intent.

Senior bowlers Kagiso Rabada and Rashid Khan—key figures in GT’s attack—were among those who conceded wides, while Mohammed Siraj endured an off day, struggling with his lengths and lines.

Despite that, Hayden felt the bowlers were not far off their best. “We’re splitting hairs in many ways,” he said, highlighting how modern T20 batting punishes even slight errors.

GT’s issues extended beyond bowling. Their inability to match RR’s six-hitting also hurt them. While GT struck more fours, they lagged significantly in sixes—a recurring concern after a similar pattern in their defeat to Punjab Kings.

At one stage, GT were cruising at 103 for 1 in the chase of 210 before a collapse triggered by Ravi Bishnoi shifted momentum. Poor decision-making, including risky shot selection and a costly run-out, compounded their problems.

Hayden emphasised that in tight chases, such moments are decisive. “Those little things become vital,” he said.

With two consecutive losses, GT now face mounting pressure ahead of their next fixture against Delhi Capitals. Improving discipline with the ball and making smarter decisions in key phases will be crucial if they are to get their campaign back on track.

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