Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes Gujarat Titans (GT) hold a slight advantage over Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the IPL 2026 Qualifier 1 due to the favorable Dharamshala conditions and Gujarat’s strong pace attack. The match between RCB and GT is set to take place at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala, with a spot in the IPL 2026 final up for grabs. Pathan emphasized that the conditions in Dharamshala are likely to benefit fast bowlers with swing and bounce, which could work in Gujarat’s favor.
Speaking ahead of the crucial clash, Pathan mentioned that the conditions in Dharamshala are conducive to fast bowling, offering swing and bounce that could play to Gujarat’s strengths. He highlighted Gujarat’s quality and consistent pace attack as a key factor that could give them an edge in the match. Pathan expressed that Gujarat’s fast bowlers have performed well even on flat tracks in Ahmedabad, and in Dharamshala, with the ball moving and bouncing, they are expected to be even more potent.
Pathan praised Gujarat Titans skipper Shubman Gill for his leadership skills and batting prowess during the ongoing season. He commended Gill’s growth as a batter and captain, noting his ability to face challenges effectively. Pathan particularly lauded Gill’s proficiency against both pace and spin bowling, emphasizing his improved intent and technique this season. He highlighted Gill’s strong off-side play against pace bowlers and his effective use of the slog sweep against spinners to score big shots.
The former India pacer mentioned that Shubman Gill entered the IPL 2026 season with a clear objective of enhancing his strike rate after being dropped from the Indian team for the T20 World Cup 2026. Pathan stated that Gill is determined to reclaim his spot in the national team setup and is focused on performing well in the IPL. He believes that winning the IPL trophy for Gujarat is a significant goal for Gill, who is eager to excel against RCB in the Qualifier 1. Pathan expressed confidence that Gill’s style of play will suit the Dharamshala pitch, setting the stage for an exciting encounter.
