Former Indian cricketer and commentator Aakash Chopra has exposed a potential weakness in Gujarat Titans (GT) ahead of squad Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 Season. According to Chopra, the franchise may face challenges due to heavy reliance on top-order batsmen, especially if one of their key players fails to perform consistently.
The Gujarat-based franchise enjoyed a solid campaign in IPL 2025, reaching the playoffs after impressive performances Shubman Gill, Sai SudarshanAnd jos buttler On top of the order. However, their journey ended after a defeat to Mumbai Indians in the eliminator, as Buttler was unavailable for the match due to national commitments. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, Chopra believes their reliance on the top three could become a weakness.
Aakash Chopra reveals the weakness of Gujarat Titans before IPL 2026
Gujarat Titans’ success last season was largely based on the consistency of their top-order batsmen. Captain Gill led from the front, while Sudarshan continued to be one of the most dependable young batsmen in the tournament. Buttler, meanwhile, provided the explosive firepower expected in the shortest format.
Chopra said the team performed best when the top three players were able to bat deep early in the innings. When at least one of them remained at the crease till the middle overs, the Titans were able to build a strong platform for competitive totals.
Chopra pointed out that the team’s outlook was good last season, but it could be risky if the top order fails to perform regularly. He explained that the ideal scenario for Gujarat Titans is when the top three remain at the crease till the 14th or 15th over, thereby ensuring stability and pace in the innings. However, relying too much on this strategy can leave the middle order exposed if early wickets fall.
“What are their weaknesses? They can be called weaknesses or challenges. There is still a bit of over-dependence seen on the top three. It is great if they repeat what they did last year, which means the top three bat together till the 14th or 15th over, and at least one of them has to be 100 per cent till the 15th over.” Chopra said on his YouTube channel.
Also read: IPL 2026: 3 players who can replace injured Harshit Rana in Kolkata Knight Riders team
Star batsman’s recent form raises concerns
The other factor that Chopra highlighted was Buttler’s recent decline in form t20 world cup 2026. The England star had an unusually quiet tournament, scoring only 87 runs at an average of 10.88 in eight innings.
For a player who is known for dominating bowlers in all conditions, the figures were astonishing. Chopra commented that it was rare to see Buttler struggle to this extent in a World Cup tournament. He also said that the right-handed batsman looked uncomfortable even on batting-friendly pitches, raising questions about whether this slump could continue into the IPL season.
According to Chopra, Gujarat Titans would ideally like Buttler to provide explosive starts along with Gill. However, if the English wicketkeeper-batsmen continue to struggle, the team may face difficulties at the top of the order.
“However, the truth is that Jos Buttler’s current form is very good. We have never seen Jos Buttler play more ordinary than this in any World Cup edition. He seemed to struggle in good conditions this time. So will this be a bit of an issue for Gujarat Titans? You want to start with Jos Buttler, but what if the form is not good? Both the openers cannot score runs every time.” Chopra added.
See also: MS Dhoni repairs his bat using electric sander during IPL 2026 practice session
