Former India batter Mohammad Kaif has raised concerns over Gujarat Titans’ bowling combination ahead of IPL 2026, particularly pointing out the absence of a reliable death-over specialist. While the franchise boasts a strong overall attack, Kaif believes the lack of clarity in the final overs could prove costly in high-pressure situations.

Gujarat Titans enjoyed a solid bowling season last year, with Prasidh Krishna leading the charge by claiming 25 wickets and winning the Purple Cap. Sai Kishore also impressed with 19 scalps, while experienced names like Mohammed Siraj, Kagiso Rabada, and Rashid Khan added depth and variety to the attack.

However, Mohammad Kaif feels that despite this impressive lineup, GT are missing a specialist who can consistently deliver in the death overs—a role that often decides the outcome of T20 matches. “Siraj is primarily a new-ball bowler, while Prasidh operates effectively in the middle overs with his hit-the-deck approach,” Kaif said on Star Sports. “He has improved his slower deliveries, but the concern remains—who will handle the death overs?”

Kaif further highlighted that even experienced pacers like Rabada and Siraj struggled towards the backend of matches last season, especially in crunch situations.

“In the final few games, Rabada was expensive, Siraj went for runs, and even Prasidh was targeted. That’s where the problem lies. You need someone who can control the game in the last four overs,” he added.

While Gujarat Titans still have backup options like Ishant Sharma and England’s Luke Wood, the lack of a proven finisher with the ball remains a concern heading into IPL 2026.

This weakness was exposed during their Eliminator loss last season, where Mumbai Indians piled up 228 runs, with Siraj and Prasidh conceding heavily in their combined overs. As Shubman Gill’s side prepares to open their campaign against Punjab Kings on March 31, addressing their death bowling concerns could be key to their title ambitions this season.