Veteran cricket commentator Simon Doull has suggested a strategic shift for Gujarat Titans (GT) ahead of their IPL 2026 clash against Delhi Capitals (DC) on April 8. Doull expressed his belief that Rahul Tewatia may no longer be at the peak of his career, arguing that the franchise would benefit from replacing him with Sai Kishore to bolster the team's overall balance.
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Rahul Tewatia, a burden for GT? Simon Doull feels so
The core of Doull’s critique lies in Tewatia's diminishing role as an all-rounder. He pointed out that while Tewatia remains a competent fielder, he has largely stopped contributing with the ball in recent matches. In contrast, Doull views Sai Kishore as a more versatile asset who offers comparable batting potential while providing significantly stronger bowling and fielding skills for the Titans' lineup.
"They are carrying Rahul Tewatia. I won't even say he is a luxury at No.7 because he is not. He is a safety net that might be okay to get you some runs. He doesn't bowl anymore and is just okay in the field. With all due respect, his time is past in my opinion. You get a Sai Kishore in there, as he gives you a bit more. Getting him in for Tewatia allows your batting to be similar, but it gives you a bowling option and a jet in the field," Doull said on Cricbuzz.
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Doull not just highlighting Tewatia's weakness but also recommended a few tactical adjustments regarding the southpaw and Kagiso Rabada.
"Holder should come in place of Rabada. That deepens your batting again. Kishore and Holder in, and Rabada and Tewatia out would be the way. You give the rest of the middle order one more opportunity," he added.
GT in search of first win
GT are yet to register their first win in the ongoing season. They opened their IPL 2026 campaign against Punjab Kings (PBKS) and suffered a three-wicket defeat. They then took on Rajasthan Royals (RR) to only see them on the losing side as the IPL 2022-title winner lost the match by 6 runs. GT will now take on Delhi Capitals (DC) on April 8 at the Arun Jaitley stadium.