Mumbai: As the 19th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) gears up, the Gujarat Titans are all set to kick off their campaign against the Punjab Kings. Ahead of their first match, the Titans held a pre-match press conference, giving fans a glimpse into team strategies, preparations, and morale. At the forefront of this discussion was Matthew Hayden, the Titans’ batting coach, whose insights into the squad’s approach, leadership dynamics, and batting philosophy set the tone for what promises to be an exhilarating season.
Hayden, a veteran of international cricket with a decorated career spanning multiple formats, brings a unique perspective to the Titans. Having previously excelled as a player, broadcaster, and now a coach, he spoke at length about his excitement for the role, the squad’s depth, and the evolving standards of modern T20 cricket. He emphasized the importance of preparation, team cohesion, and the tactical execution of both batting and bowling units. With a strong core of experienced players complemented by promising young talents, Hayden believes the Titans are well-positioned to tackle the challenges of both home and away fixtures. The press conference offered a window into the mindset of a team determined to build on its previous IPL successes while embracing the ever-increasing demands of high-scoring T20 cricket.
Q&A with Matthew Hayden
Q: Coach, how are you enjoying your role with the Gujarat Titans?
Hayden: It’s been fantastic. This is my first time in a coaching role at this level, and while it’s different from playing or broadcasting, I’m really enjoying it. We’ve got an extremely talented batting lineup, with some of the best young Indian talent leading the order. It’s a challenge, but an exciting one, and I’m looking forward to the season ahead.
Q: How is captain Shubhankar approaching this season?
Hayden: Shubhankar is a confident and clear-minded leader. He combines modern swagger with an unselfish, team-oriented approach. He’s focused on getting the batting unit to perform consistently, just as they did in the 2025 IPL. His leadership sets a solid foundation for both the experienced players and the young guns.
Q: There’s been a lot of discussion about “impact players.” How do they fit into the team’s strategy?
Hayden: Impact players are great, but balance is key. They can change games quickly, which has shifted benchmarks in T20 cricket. For us, it’s about using them wisely without diminishing the role of all-rounders. A well-prepared, confident batting group benefits immensely from this flexibility.
Q: How do Shubman Gill and Sai Sudarshan prepare for the season?
Hayden: Both are phenomenal professionals. Their dedication to preparation, fitness, and technique is inspiring. They embrace all the resources we provide—from mindset coaches to physiotherapists—to continually improve. Watching their preparation and discipline is a privilege.
Q: With higher scoring T20 games, what’s the challenge for bowlers?
Hayden: Bowlers face a tough task, but opportunity comes with challenge. Executing skills like yorkers, slow balls, and variations becomes even more critical. Our group is thinking strategically, adjusting to different pitch conditions—red, black, and mixed soils—and always seeking to outsmart the batting units.
Q: Any final thoughts on the upcoming season?
Hayden: We have a strong, balanced squad, excellent leadership, and a supportive fan base. It’s all about preparation, execution, and enjoying the game. We’re excited to start and build on our previous successes.
