From Siraj’s Spell to Buttler’s Carnage: How GT Dismantled RCB in Style

Some matches go far beyond the final result to tell a story. In the fourteenth match of the 2025 IPL, the Gujarat Titans (GT) swept Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) aside for a dominating eight-wicket triumph. It was more than just a win; milestones were destroyed, revenge tasted sweet for a player, and finally, there was no better run chase than this one.

Siraj’s Redemption Arc

If anyone had a point to prove in the game, it was Mohammed Siraj. A former RCB mainstay, he returned in GT colors to the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium and kept talking to let the ball speak for him. Oh boy, did it ever say something!

Siraj finished with figures of 3 for 19, tearing apart the top order of RCB and letting them know exactly what they were missing. His spell began with the big wicket of Devdutt Padikkal, who was clearly trapped LBW before being followed in quick succession by Phil Salt. In each delivery, Siraj was a man on a mission, snatching away at the ball, putting in hard lengths, and celebrating as though he were reclaiming his lost kingdom.

It wasn’t just the numbers that made this spell special—it was the feeling. Siraj, who has come under scrutiny for his inconsistency, bowled with accuracy and passion on the day. This was a sign that GT’s investment in him was really spot on.

Buttler’s Blazing Knock

As for a pace-chase 170, it sometimes looks tricky. But when you have Jos Buttler in such sizzling form, bowling attacks are easily broken apart by the English destroyer, and his unbeaten 73 runs in only 39 balls meant RCB’s total was cruised out of sight.

He reaches his fifty in Buttler style, with a towering six off Liam Livingstone that easily cleared the ropes. Every shot was measured, and every boundary was highlighted. Whether brutal pull shots or delicate dabs through midwicket, this is the reason why Buttler remains a player the rest of the T20 world is fearful in front of.

Partnering with Sai Sudharsan (49), Buttler made sure GT never lost control of the chase or overs even. Both aggressive and measured, ruthless as well as wise, his innings were a true course in how to pace a run chase.

Livingstone’s Lone Battle That Went in Vain

In a match otherwise destined to be forgotten, Liam Livingstone turned out to be a beacon of hope for RCB. He came on when wickets were falling like ninepins, but he stood firm and made 54 not out.

While the side relieved him of that early scare, he made the best of his first real opportunity in his second coming. And then could hardly stop to take a breath: In the 18th over against Rashid Khan, 3 sixes in as many balls meant that Chinnaswamy crowd was on its feet for what must have seemed an eternity.

But cricket is a cruel game. Although Livingstone gave a splendid display, he got no help from the other end. His fifty, although stirring in intent, was merely an empty ambition as GT’s bowlers kept RCB under wraps and made them fall from strength into weakness.

GT’s victory over RCB wasn’t just one more win- it was out for all to see via a particular way of doing things. Siraj – Redemptive hero. Buttler with well-pitched brilliance. Livingstone totally on his own against everyone else out there. That battle of solitude, excitement in wordless emotions, and brilliance.

Now, here’s the big problem. Can the Gujarat Titans keep winning like this throughout the IPL season? On the strength of this performance, we’d expect nothing else possibly from them! Do you think so, too? Let us hear your thoughts below.

Disclaimer: This cricket blog reflects the author’s insights and analysis. Readers should consider the points discussed and draw their own conclusions.

Visit Bjsports to access our Cricket Blogs that are just for you and reminisce about all of your favorite cricket nostalgia moments while being thrilled by our solid cricket blog updates. To ensure you never miss out, join in on the fun right away!

Abit Leo

See Full Bio