GT vs RR IPL 2026 Match 9: Full Team Rankings, Playing 11, and Points Table Update
The thrill of the TATA IPL 2026 continues as the Gujarat Titans (GT) return to their den, the Narendra Modi Stadium, to host the current table-toppers, Rajasthan Royals (RR). This Match 9 encounter is more than just a game; it is a battle of contrasting starts.
While the Rajasthan Royals dismantled CSK in their opener to claim the #1 spot, Gujarat Titans are looking to bounce back after a tough loss against Punjab Kings. As we head into this massive Saturday night clash, here is your complete guide to the rankings, predicted XIs, and tactical insights.
Table of Contents
Match Details: Saturday Night Fever
- Match: Gujarat Titans vs Rajasthan Royals, Match 8 (IPL 2026)
- Date: Saturday, April 4, 2026
- Time: 7:30 PM IST (Toss at 7:00 PM)
- Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
- Broadcast: Star Sports Network & JioHotstar App
Latest IPL 2026 Points Table & Team Rankings
Before the start of Match 9, Rajasthan Royals are sitting pretty at the top thanks to a massive Net Run Rate (NRR) from their opening victory. Gujarat Titans, currently in the bottom half, need a win to avoid falling behind the pack.
| Rank | Team | Matches | Won | Lost | Points | Net Run Rate (NRR) |
| 1 | Rajasthan Royals (RR) | 1 | 1 | 0 | 2 | +4.171 |
| 2 | Punjab Kings (PBKS) | 2 | 2 | 0 | 4 | +0.637 |
| 3 | RCB | 1 | 1 | 0 | 2 | +2.907 |
| 4 | Delhi Capitals (DC) | 1 | 1 | 0 | 2 | +1.397 |
| 5 | Mumbai Indians (MI) | 1 | 1 | 0 | 2 | +0.687 |
| 7 | Gujarat Titans (GT) | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | -0.509 |
The Scenario: A victory for RR tonight would keep them at the top with a perfect record. For GT, a win would help them leapfrog several teams and potentially enter the Top 5.
GT vs RR: Probable Playing 11 for Match 9
Gujarat Titans (GT) – Predicted XI
Shubman Gill will be looking for more support from his middle order. Watch out for Sai Sudharsan, who has a phenomenal record at this venue.
- Shubman Gill (C)
- Wriddhiman Saha (WK)
- Sai Sudharsan
- Azmatullah Omarzai ✈️
- David Miller ✈️
- Shahrukh Khan
- Rashid Khan ✈️
- Rahul Tewatia
- Umesh Yadav
- Spencer Johnson ✈️
- Mohit Sharma
- Impact Player: Sai Kishore / Sandeep Warrier
Rajasthan Royals (RR) – Predicted XI
RR’s young sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi made headlines in the first game, and the team is expected to stick with their winning combination.
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Jos Buttler ✈️
- Sanju Samson (C & WK)
- Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
- Riyan Parag
- Shimron Hetmyer ✈️
- Dhruv Jurel
- Ravichandran Ashwin
- Trent Boult ✈️
- Avesh Khan
- Yuzvendra Chahal
- Impact Player: Nandre Burger ✈️ / Sandeep Sharma
Head-to-Head: Dominance vs. Revenge
Historically, Gujarat Titans have been the kryptonite for Rajasthan Royals. Even when RR has been in top form, GT has often found a way to win.
- Total Matches Played: 8
- Gujarat Titans Won: 6
- Rajasthan Royals Won: 2
- In Ahmedabad: GT 2 – 1 RR
- Last Meeting (2025): RR won by 8 wickets.
Pitch & Conditions: The Ahmedabad Factor
The Narendra Modi Stadium usually offers a high-scoring “flat” deck. However, the black soil pitches here can offer some assistance to spinners like Rashid Khan and Yuzvendra Chahal as the game goes on.
- Toss Strategy: Chasing is usually preferred here due to the dew factor in the second innings.
- Weather: Clear skies with a temperature around 32°C during match time.
Who Will Win? (Match Prediction)
- Rajasthan Royals have the momentum and a destructive top order.
- Gujarat Titans have the home advantage and a superior head-to-head record.
- Verdict: While RR is the form team, Gujarat Titans often peak at home. We predict a narrow win for GT to open their account in 2026.
Why is Rajasthan Royals ranked #1 with only 1 win?
Is Mohammed Shami playing for GT today?
As of now, Mohammed Shami is still recovering from injury and is not expected to be in the starting XI for the early stages of the tournament.
Who is the highest run-scorer in GT vs RR matches?
Shubman Gill holds the record with over 330 runs against RR in just 8 innings.
What time does the GT vs RR match start?
The match starts at 7:30 PM IST, with the toss taking place at 7:00 PM IST.
Where can I watch the match live on mobile?
You can stream Match 9 live on the JioHotstar app or website for free (with ads) or via a premium subscription.
