Shubman Gill wants to take charge of Gujarat Titans' (GT) batting in IPL 2025. His main goal is to "maximize the powerplay." In IPL 2024, GT had the lowest run rate (7.72) in the first six overs. Gill’s strike rate in this phase was 131.08, while his teammate Sai Sudharsan scored even slower at 115.49. As a result, the team struggled to build momentum.

After reaching back-to-back finals in their first two seasons, GT finished eighth in IPL 2024. That season was also Gill’s first as captain. Therefore, he now wants to set the tone early in matches.

Focusing on a Strong Start

"The plan is to score as many runs as possible and lose as few wickets as possible," Gill said at GT’s pre-season press conference. However, he admitted that the team failed to perform in the powerplay and later phases last season. Consequently, they could not qualify for the playoffs.

"As a batsman, it is my responsibility to bat in a way that allows us to maximize the powerplay," he added. "Hopefully, this time we correct the mistakes from last season."

Adapting to Different Match Conditions

IPL 2024 saw many high-scoring games, including eight totals of 250 runs or more. However, Gill does not want his team to assume that IPL 2025 will be the same.

"We are not trying to chase 300. That’s not our aim," he clarified. Instead, GT will focus on reading match conditions carefully. "If the wicket allows us to score 240, 250, or 260, we will aim for it. On the other hand, if 150 or 160 is an ideal total, we will target that," he explained.

Moreover, Gill emphasized the importance of adaptability. "If a team only plays in one way, it is not adapting. A great team adjusts to conditions and challenges."

Gill’s Growth as a Captain

IPL 2024 was Gill’s first real chance to lead a senior-level team. Before that, he had captained Punjab only twice. However, he has since gained experience leading India in Zimbabwe and serving as Rohit Sharma’s deputy for the Sri Lanka tour and the Champions Trophy 2025. As a result, this season is crucial for his leadership development.

"I have more experience captaining Gujarat Titans than the Indian team," Gill stated. Furthermore, he values the mentorship of Ashish Nehra and Vikram Solanki. "Their guidance is invaluable. My first season as captain taught me a lot," he added.

Leadership, he believes, reveals new aspects of both players and oneself. "I have learned what I need to improve to be a better captain," he admitted.

Learning from Different Captains

Gill has played under various captains, each with unique leadership qualities. "Every captain has different strengths," he said. "Some qualities resonate with you as a person. Those are the ones you carry forward. That’s what I aim to do."

Separating Batting and Captaincy

Gill had an outstanding IPL 2023, scoring nearly 900 runs. In IPL 2024, he started strong with 255 runs at a strike rate of 151.78 in six matches. However, his form declined later in the season, and he finished with 426 runs at 147.40.

Now, he wants to keep his batting and captaincy separate. "The more I separate batting and captaincy, the better," he explained. "When I bat, I focus only on batting. Captaincy comes after I get out or when we are fielding. Mixing both doesn’t help."

Confidence in Gujarat Titans’ Performance

Despite missing the playoffs last season, Gill remains confident in GT’s overall record. In the past three seasons, the team has won 28 matches—more than any other franchise.

"If you look at our record, we have the most wins and the highest win percentage," he pointed out. "If we continue playing like this, it will be another great season."

Moreover, he believes GT does not need to make drastic changes. "Just because it’s a new season doesn’t mean we must change anything," he added. "Over the past three years, we have played the most consistent cricket. We will stick to our game plan."