Matthew Hayden

Matthew Hayden praised young Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's explosive 36 off 16 balls but stressed the need for longer innings when chasing big totals. He highlighted Gujarat Titans' consistent top-order batting, balancing aggression with longevity, as key to their success. Shubman Gill's 84 led Gujarat to a commanding 229/6, ultimately securing a 77-run victory.

Chennai Super Kings captain Ruturaj Gaikwad registered the slowest IPL 2026 fifty, taking 49 balls against Gujarat Titans. His cautious 74 not out off 60 balls, while aiding CSK's total, highlighted batting struggles on a challenging Chepauk pitch. The innings reflected the impact of early wickets and a lively surface on the scoring rate.

Tilak Varma silenced critics with a stunning maiden IPL century, scoring 101 off 45 balls against Gujarat Titans. His composed yet aggressive innings, featuring seven sixes, propelled MI to 199/5. GT batting coach Matthew Hayden lauded Varma's ability to perform when others struggled, highlighting his crucial knock.

Gujarat Titans' batting coach Matthew Hayden slammed his team's 99-run defeat to Mumbai Indians, calling the batting 'unacceptable' and a 'horrible day'. He highlighted a powerplay collapse that exposed the middle order prematurely and criticised the bowling for conceding too many runs late. Hayden stressed the need for better mindset and execution from his star-studded lineup.

Washington Sundar, once a prominent Powerplay bowler in the IPL, finds his bowling role diminished due to the 'Impact Player' rule. Despite this, the all-rounder expresses a desire to bowl more, especially in the Powerplay. He is, however, relishing a consistent batting position in the top four for Gujarat Titans this season.

Gujarat Titans' batting lacked cohesion in their six-run loss to Rajasthan Royals, despite a strong start. Batting coach Matthew Hayden noted bowlers were slightly off rhythm, with key wickets of Washington Sundar and M Shahrukh Khan proving decisive in the chase of 211.

While RCB star Virat Kohli dominates IPL chase runs, he surprisingly doesn't top the average charts. David Miller leads this elite list with an impressive 49.08 average, followed by KL Rahul and Phil Salt. Kohli sits tenth, highlighting that sheer volume isn't the only measure of chase prowess in T20 cricket.

IPL's T20 cricket has become a batter's paradise, with 200 not even a par total. Coaches Ricky Ponting and Matthew Hayden acknowledge the Impact Player rule has amplified batting power, shrinking bowlers' margin for error. They suggest old-fashioned, precise bowling variations like wide yorkers and slower offcutters are key to survival.

Gujarat Titans' batting coach Matthew Hayden has declared Rahul Tewatia as the ideal recipient for his iconic Mongoose bat, citing the finisher's immense power-hitting ability. Hayden's endorsement highlights the team's confidence in Tewatia's crucial role in T20 matches. Tewatia has consistently proven his mettle as a reliable finisher for GT.

Jos Buttler credits the Indian Premier League as the most significant influence on his career, highlighting invaluable lessons learned from figures like Rahul Dravid and Matthew Hayden. Despite a recent World Cup dip, Buttler approaches the IPL with consistent focus, aiming to contribute to Gujarat Titans' success. He also praised uncapped Indian pacer Ashok Sharma's potential.

Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer, both overlooked by national selectors, displayed intense focus in pre-IPL nets. Gill honed his timing and power-hitting, while Iyer unleashed ferocious shots, signaling their intent to prove a point in the upcoming IPL clash between Gujarat Titans and Punjab Kings.

Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer, aiming to prove their T20I worth, will captain Gujarat Titans and Punjab Kings respectively in a crucial IPL clash. Gill, a consistent scorer, leads a settled GT side, while Iyer, despite international snubs, anchors a strong PBKS unit facing form concerns. The match promises a contest of redemption and balance.

Chennai Super Kings inducted Suresh Raina and Matthew Hayden into their inaugural Hall of Fame at the "Roar’26" fan event. Raina, 'Chinna Thala', was instrumental in four title wins and remains CSK's leading run-scorer. Hayden contributed to the 2010 IPL victory and was the first CSK player to win the Orange Cap.

Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer, leading Gujarat Titans and Punjab Kings respectively, aim to make a statement in a high-stakes IPL clash. Both captains, often overlooked internationally, seek redemption and recognition, with Gill's evolving strike rate and Iyer's proven leadership at the forefront. The match is expected to be a high-scoring affair on a batting-friendly pitch.

Gujarat Titans signed Kulwant Khejroliya as replacement for injured Prithviraj Yarra ahead of IPL 2026. Captain Shubman Gill stressed calm, confident leadership and long-term vision. Director Vikram Solanki highlighted minimal squad changes and continuity. With a strong core and clear approach, Gujarat Titans begin their campaign aiming to build on past success.

Gujarat Titans have secured the services of Australian legend Matthew Hayden as their new batting coach for the upcoming IPL season. A two-time World Cup winner, Hayden's immense international experience and T20 expertise are expected to significantly bolster the team's batting lineup and shape their aggressive approach. He replaces Matthew Wade in the coaching setup.

MS Dhoni's priceless reaction was captured as former CSK star Michael Hussey smashed a six during an exhibition match at Chepauk. The game, featuring ex-CSK players against the current squad, saw Hussey, now the batting coach, hit a big shot off Ruturaj Gaikwad's bowling, much to Dhoni's amusement. The event celebrated CSK's legacy with a crowd of enthusiastic fans.

AR Rahman shared a fun video call with MS Dhoni at CSK's ‘ROAR 2026’ pre-IPL fan fest in Chennai. Smiling together amid fireworks, captioned “Thala meets Thala.” Fans raved; ex-players joined. Rahman next composes for Mani Ratnam's ‘Production 23’ with Vijay Sethupathi, Sai Pallavi.

Chennai Super Kings celebrated their legacy with a 'Roar' event, featuring past legends like Raina and Muralitharan in an exhibition match. Newcomer Sanju Samson impressed, sharing his excitement for the IPL season and his simple batting approach. The event also saw Raina and Hayden inducted into CSK's Hall of Fame.