Matthew Hayden praised the Gujarat Titans for producing their most complete performance of IPL 2026 after the franchise crushed the Rajasthan Royals by 77 runs in Jaipur. The Titans’ batting coach credited the top-order batters and star spinner Rashid Khan for driving the team to the biggest victory margin in Gujarat’s IPL history. At the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Gujarat once again showcased the consistency that has defined their campaign this season.

Captain Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan delivered another commanding opening partnership, laying the perfect platform for a huge total. Rashid then ripped through Rajasthan’s batting order with a match-winning four-wicket haul as the Royals collapsed under scoreboard pressure. Speaking after the game, Hayden said Gujarat are finally beginning to peak as a complete unit.

“It is a very strong side and an extremely dangerous bowling attack,” Matthew Hayden said. “What we saw tonight was a team that clicked in every department. Our top three batters are like apex predators. The one-two-three combination gives us incredible stability and firepower at the same time.”

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The former Australian opener also pointed out the depth in Gujarat’s squad, highlighting that the Titans still had quality players waiting on the bench despite their dominant performance. “We didn’t even play someone like Prasidh Krishna, who is an international-level bowler,” Hayden explained. “That tells you about the versatility and balance within this squad. Sai Kishore also stepped up beautifully tonight. Most importantly, we are now playing with real confidence.”

Hayden believes the Gujarat Titans have quietly built momentum throughout IPL 2026 through consistency rather than relying entirely on superstar power.

Batting coach Hayden hails GT’s “apex predator” top-order, spinner Rashid after win over RR

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“This team has gone about the tournament in its own style,” he said. “It is not always about star names or flashy cricket. Gujarat Titans are built around consistency — staying in the game, controlling moments and building pressure gradually. That approach is now paying off.” The Titans coach also issued a warning to upcoming opponents Sunrisers Hyderabad, insisting Gujarat are becoming increasingly dangerous as the playoffs approach.

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“SRH should be careful because this team is beginning to click together at the right time,” Hayden added. “We are playing with belief now and we also have the advantage of returning to our home venue. Gujarat Titans already have one of the best winning percentages in IPL history and we want to keep building on that.”

Hayden also opened up about his close working relationship with Sai Sudharsan, revealing that many of their cricket conversations take place outside intense training sessions.

“With Sai, there is a natural connection because we are both left-handed opening batters,” Matthew Hayden said. “We usually discuss cricket over a cup of masala chai after practice. Sometimes it’s not about hitting more balls or training harder. It’s about reflecting on the game calmly and understanding situations better. I really value those conversations.”

The former Australia batter reserved special praise for Rashid Khan, who appears to have rediscovered his best form after struggling physically over the past two seasons. “We all know Rashid is an X-factor player,” Matthew Hayden said. “For me, the signs are clear that he is back to his best. The pace, the zip off the wicket and the way batters are struggling to pick him again — that’s classic Rashid Khan.”

Hayden particularly highlighted Rashid’s sharp delivery that dismissed Donovan Ferreira during the chase.

“That ball to Donovan Ferreira was special,” he added. “It was bowled at around 110 kilometres per hour and had incredible bite off the surface. Most batters in world cricket would have struggled against that delivery. Having Rashid operating in the middle overs gives us a huge advantage against any opposition.”