The Gujarat Titans’ (GT) dream of defending their IPL title came to a crashing halt on Monday night as rain lashed Ahmedabad, forcing the abandonment of their crucial match against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) without a ball being bowled.
The washout meant both teams shared a point, but for KKR, already assured of a playoff spot, it was a mere formality. For GT however, it was a bitter pill to swallow. The Titans, who were IPL champions in 2022, needed a win to keep their playoff hopes alive. Their poor run rate throughout the season also hampered their chances.
The relentless rain at the Narendra Modi Stadium left no chance for any cricket to be played. The disappointment was evident on the faces of the GT players and fans alike. This marks the first time the Titans will miss the playoffs in their short IPL history.
KKR Clinch Top-Two Finish
While rain dashed GT’s hopes, it benefitted KKR. The extra point from the washout secured them a top-two finish on the points table. This advantage gives them two attempts to reach the final, scheduled for May 26th in Chennai.
A Season of Missed Opportunities for GT
Experts believe that the absence of key players like Mohammad Shami and the late departure of Hardik Pandya significantly impacted GT’s performance this season. While they started strong, their campaign fizzled out midway, leaving them with a lot to ponder for the upcoming auction and the next season.
This rain-affected washout has certainly cast a shadow over GT’s IPL 2024 campaign. With their title defense over, all eyes will now be on the remaining teams vying for those coveted playoff spots.
