[In Pictures] IPL 2025: Player fight scorching heat in Ahmedabad during GT vs DC match

At the Gujarat Titans (GT) vs. Delhi Capitals (DC) game at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, an unexpected third force—the intense heat—took control of a tournament where teams often dominate. Players on both sides were put to the test by the harsh weather, with some finding it difficult to handle the humidity.

Ishant Sharma, a seasoned Indian pacer, seemed to be the most impacted on the pitch, while others like Axar Patel and Prasidh Krishna were observed to be suffering from cramps. A pundit characterised the 36-year-old’s condition as a potential “heat stroke” after he was out for a large chunk of the game. After cooling himself with damp towels, the right-arm bowler produced a three-over performance in which he claimed one wicket, demonstrating a remarkable effort.

The toss was won by GT captain Shubman Gill, who chose to bowl first.

Gill acknowledged the heat during the toss, and DC captain Axar Patel also made reference to it. Even though the conditions were challenging, DC’s batting team performed admirably and outperformed the GT bowlers.

KL Rahul’s brilliant 28 off 14 was followed by Karun Nair’s 31 off 18 balls, which gave DC a rapid start. Axar Patel led the innings in the middle overs with a solid 39 off 32 balls. With 31 off 21, Tristan Stubbs gave the innings a boost, and Ashutosh Sharma delivered a spectacular conclusion with a scorching 37 off just 19 balls. DC achieved a respectable 203 for 8 total.

Prasidh Krishna was the most successful of the GT bowlers, taking four wickets in his four overs while giving up 41 runs.

The GT hitters, who were chasing 204, had to step in under tremendous pressure to win in front of their home crowd. This pressure came from both the scoreboard and the heat. GT is now in third place in the points table, while DC is at the top.