Former Indian cricketer and head coach Ravi Shastri has backed Gujarat Titans to retain their Indian Premier League (IPL) title in the ongoing 2023 season. Titans currently lead the points table with 12 points, having won six out of their nine fixtures with a decent Net Run Rate of 0.532. Speaking on Star Sports, Shastri attributed the team’s consistency and flexibility to its success.

“Looking at the current form and team standings, I believe that Gujarat will win the trophy. There is consistency and flexibility in this team and there are seven-eight players who are performing consistently. The players in this Gujarat side complement each other,” said Shastri.

However, Gujarat’s winning run came to an end in their last match against David Warner’s Delhi Capitals. The Titans will be looking to bounce back to winning ways in their upcoming game against last season’s runners up, Rajasthan Royals at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on Friday, May 5.

Ahead of the clash, Shastri praised Rajasthan skipper Sanju Samson, highlighting his improved captaincy and smart usage of spinners in the matches.

“Sanju Samson has matured as a captain. He uses his spinners very well. Only a good captain can play with three spinners and use them smartly,” Shastri commented.

Rajasthan Royals currently sit fourth on the IPL Points Table with 10 points, having won five of their nine outings with the best NRR among all teams at 0.800. They will be looking to avenge their earlier loss to Gujarat Titans when they take on the defending champions in their upcoming match.