Playing a captain's knock, Shubman Gill unleashed a masterclass, shining when Gujarat Titans needed him the most, slamming a breathtaking innings of 104 runs to guide GT to a thumping seven-wicket victory over Rajasthan Royals in Qualifier 2 of the IPL 2026 on Friday and securing a place in the final. Chasing a target of 215, Gill gave Gujarat Titans a solid start, showing great determination to bring up his century. During his innings, he hit 15 fours and three sixes, bringing up his century from 47 balls.
"I was in the kind of zone where I was just looking at the gaps and the bowler and looking where I wanted to hit the ball. I was not looking to hit the ball too hard. It was just about seeing the ball, seeing my zone and trying to hit it there," Gill said at the post-match presentation.
Shubman Gill got great support from Sai Sudharsan, with the duo stitching a 167-run opening partnership to steer the side to victory. Both were playing really well until Sudharsan (58 off 32) was out hit wicket for a second match in a row. Speaking on his partnership with Sai, Gill said they both understand each other's game pretty well.
"Honestly, we complement each other. We understand each other's game very well. And when we are batting out there, our communication is very good. We know one of us has to take down one of the bowlers, and we are very good in deciding which bowler to take on," Gill said.
"I don't think anyone has seen that (hit-wicket) happen in two games in a row. I saw some video on social media taping his hands, and I think I am going to have to do that in the next match," he said.
Gujarat Titans will now go against defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the final on Sunday in Ahmedabad.
"The feeling is definitely good. There is a quick turnaround, so hopefully we'll all rest and recover tomorrow (Saturday). And then (the) day after (tomorrow) go there and see how the wicket is and then just play another match of cricket," Gill said.