Sanjay Bangar suggested an unconventional team combination for Gujarat Titans (GT) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 final against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday, May 31.
The former Indian all-rounder floated the idea of playing with only three overseas players if the Titans bowl first. GT and RCB have faced each other thrice this season, with the defending champions leading 2-1 after a 92-run win in Qualifier 1.
“This is a slightly different thinking, but can GT play with only three overseas players in their starting lineup when they are bowling first?” Bangar told Jio Hotstar.
The former India all-rounder pointed out that such a game plan could allow the Shubman Gill-led side to strengthen their batting resources later in the match, if the circumstances demand it.
“If Rashid's overs are not required, then they are left with the option of bringing in someone like Glenn Phillips, who actually gives them a lot of batting strength, something you need when you want to chase a score of probably more than 210-220,” he said.
Rashid Khan has faced both hot and cold this season. In the last game, he gave 45 runs in just two overs against Rajasthan Royals.
Despite all the concerns, Bangar believes that the Titans will ultimately stick to their usual team combination. However, he advised them to discuss every possible option before the important confrontation.
“I don't think GT will go in that direction, but they should at least consider it,” the 53-year-old said.
The former India batting coach said the Titans could also consider bringing left-arm spinner Sai Kishore into the lineup as a possible match against Rajat Patidar, who has been in great form this season.
“And if there is one spinner who has had some success against Rajat Patidar, it is Sai Kishore. He bowls slower balls outside Patidar's hitting arc, and he bowls with great control even against left-handed batsmen,” Bangar said.
Sanjay Bangar warns GT batsmen about Bhuvneshwar Kumar's threat
Bangar advised Shubman Gill And other GT batsmen should rely on their techniques instead of dancing on the track and trying to disrupt Bhuvneshwar Kumar's rhythm. The cricketer-turned-expert said that playing from the crease would be a safe option against a skilled player like Bhuvneshwar.
“Against Bhuvneshwar Kumar, I wouldn't suggest batsmen to stand outside the crease or walk towards him because he is quite fast. If he sees you dancing down the track, he can slip that straight short ball quite well,” he said.
“He also has the ability to pull his length back, and instead of swinging, he can take the ball around the seam. So, I would say play from the crease, let the ball come to you and play for as long as possible,” he said.
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