IPL match preview: Rajasthan Royals v Gujarat Titans - prediction, stars to watch and suggested bets

Rajasthan Royals v Gujarat Titans, 3pm BST, Friday 5 May 2023, Jaipur

The Titans are trying to maintain their lead in the 10-team standings, but have to bounce back from recent defeat to the Delhi Capitals. That loss to the most out of form team in the tournament showed Gujarat are, indeed, beatable.

The Royals can capitalise on this, knowing that a win over the current champions could catapult 2008's inaugural title holders right into contention for a second trophy. But they will really need to get most aspects of their game right against a smarting Titans outfit.

This match will be played in Jaipur, which has hosted two games in the 2023 Indian Premier League so far. The venue has served up first-innings scores in the range of 150 to 210. The team batting first has won on both occasions. The captain to win the toss will likely bowl second.

Rajasthan are also looking to bite back after a recent loss to the Mumbai Indians. The Rajasthan batsman stepped up then, but their bowlers let the team down in failing to successfully defend a big 213-run target.

The Titans have a brief but dominant record against the Royals. Gujarat have beaten Rajasthan in three of their last four meetings.

Yashasvi Jaiswal struck a century for the Royals against Mumbai, but this impressive innings didn't yield victory. The opener is in fine form and could continue to fire for Rajasthan inside the opening powerplay and beyond.

Titans captain Hardik Pandya put the onus on himself to improve - and quickly - after defeat to the Capitals. Pandya is a big asset with bat and ball. His ability with the ball might be especially instrumental in seaming conditions.

Gujarat have the champion quality that suggests they will bounce right back and win this match. They will be properly challenged against the Royals, though.

Hardik Pandya to be top bowler for Gujarat

Yashasvi Jaiswal to be top batsman for Rajasthan