IPL 2025: 'Why is Sai Kishore not bowling?' Fans left stunned as Shubman Gill only gives 20th over to spinner

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IPL 2025: In a bizarre tactical decision that has left fans scratching their heads, Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill chose to give spinner R Sai Kishore just one over -- the final one -- in their IPL 2025 clash against Delhi Capitals on April 19.

The move has triggered widespread criticism, especially given Kishore's recent form and his stellar record this season. Coming into the match at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Sai Kishore had taken 10 wickets in six matches, making him one of Gujarat's most reliable weapons in the middle overs.

His variations, accuracy, and ability to strangle the opposition's scoring rate have made him a regular match-winner this season. Yet, he was conspicuously absent from the attack as Delhi posted 203/8 in their 20 overs.

Gill waited until the 20th over to bring him on - a curious decision considering the situation demanded spin options to disrupt the Delhi Capitals' momentum in the middle phase. Kishore still managed to impress, conceding just nine runs and taking the wicket of the dangerous Ashutosh Sharma, even as the game was already nearing its end.

The internet was swift and unforgiving in its response. "Sai kishore is a furniture?" asked one fan, unable to comprehend why a bowler with such a record was used so sparingly. Another echoed the sentiment, asking, "Why is Sai Kishore not bowling? Who has taken 10 wickets this season?"

While some speculated the decision was influenced by the presence of Axar Patel - a left-hander at the crease - fans and experts weren't buying that explanation. "Even if a leftie hits him for six, there are chances of a wicket," noted a former cricketer-turned-commentator. "Not a good captaincy from Gill."

Axar, who eventually fell for 39, isn't exactly known for dismantling spin attacks single-handedly, making Gill's reluctance even more puzzling. While match-ups are a crucial part of T20 strategy, critics argued that overthinking them often backfires. Kishore has, after all, dismissed left-handers throughout his career and did so again in the final over.

This wasn't just about one over - it was a question of trust, timing, and game sense. With Rashid Khan completing his quota and Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna doing the bulk of the damage early, the absence of another spin option through the middle seemed to cost Gujarat key momentum.

Delhi's Ashutosh and Stubbs took full advantage during overs 14 to 18, smashing sixes and pushing the total beyond the 200-mark. And by the time Kishore was finally brought on, it was too little, too late.

As fans continue to question the call, the Gujarat Titans management might need to reflect on whether they've underutilized a proven match-winner. Because in T20s, one over can make or break a game - and it's clear the fans believe Sai Kishore deserved a few more.