GT vs RR, IPL 2025: Dropping Washington Sundar 'Does Not Make Sense', Fans Question Exclusion Despite Recent Heroics

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GT vs RR: In a surprising call that has left fans and pundits scratching their heads, Gujarat Titans dropped Washington Sundar from the playing XI in their clash against Rajasthan Royals in recent IPL 2025 Ahmedabad, despite his match-winning performance in their previous game.

Sundar, who was handed his first outing of the IPL 2025 season against Sunrisers Hyderabad, made an instant impact. Promoted to No. 4 in a modest 153-run chase, the spin-bowling allrounder slammed 49 off 29 deliveries, hitting five boundaries and two sixes, as Gujarat sealed a comfortable seven-wicket win.

He wasn't required to bowl, nor was he used as an Impact Player sub - yet, he emerged as one of the central figures in the victory. Naturally, his omission against Rajasthan raised eyebrows. Fans were quick to express their disappointment on social media.

One post summed up the mood: "Can someone tell me the logic behind not having Washington Sundar in playing XI while batting first?" Another sarcastically noted: "Washington Sundar after one blinder for GT: 'I thought I was the main character...' GT selectors: 'Cameo role, bro.'"

The Titans instead opted for Sherfane Rutherford, who has consistently performed in the death overs and played the Impact Player role well this season. But for many, Sundar's omission still "does not make sense," especially considering his flexibility as a batter and his utility with the ball.

Questions were also raised about GT's strategic choices. "Whatever strategy is to substitute Washington Sundar in the team, it should have been used on Tewatia," remarked one fan, arguing Sundar offers more value with both bat and ball. Another added, "Imagine benching a regular Indian T20I player in the IPL in place of flop Arshad."

To be fair, Gujarat's batting held up strongly against Rajasthan. Sai Sudharsan continued his dream run with a 49-ball 82, while Rahul Tewatia chipped in with a blistering cameo to take the team to a mammoth 217/6. The Titans' top order, anchored by Sudharsan and supported by the likes of Buttler and Rutherford, has been in prime touch.

Even so, fans found it difficult to overlook Sundar's absence, especially given his form and the balance he brings to the side. The Impact Player rule could have been leveraged to bring him in for a bowler if needed, but GT held him back.

Commentators and analysts have pointed out that Gujarat's strategy is largely shaped by match-ups and surface conditions. With the pitch in Ahmedabad being a red-soil batting beauty and dew expected in the second half, GT preferred an additional pacer like Ishant Sharma to partner Siraj and Krishna, rather than another spinner.

Still, the narrative around Sundar's exclusion refuses to die down. In a team where opportunities are scarce and competition is fierce, fans feel his omission - particularly after a standout performance - sends the wrong message.

For now, Washington Sundar remains benched, but if the fan outcry is anything to go by, Gujarat Titans might soon have to reconsider how they manage one of the most versatile talents in Indian cricket.