In a dramatic turn of events during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, veteran fast bowler Ishant Sharma suffered an untimely injury, limping off the field in Gujarat Titans’ (GT) clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on May 2, 2025, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The incident, which occurred in the final over of SRH’s innings, saw spinner Sai Kishore stepping in to complete Ishant’s over, leaving fans and analysts concerned about the seasoned pacer’s condition and its potential impact on GT’s dominant campaign. With Gujarat Titans solidifying their position as playoff contenders, this setback raises questions about the team’s bowling depth and Ishant’s role in their quest for the IPL 2025 title.
The Incident: A Moment of Concern
The Gujarat Titans were riding high after a commanding 38-run victory over SRH, a match that propelled them to second place on the IPL 2025 points table with 14 points, level with leaders Mumbai Indians. However, the triumph was overshadowed by Ishant Sharma’s injury. In the 20th over, as SRH chased a formidable target, Ishant appeared to slip in his follow-through while bowling to SRH captain Pat Cummins. Visibly uncomfortable, he was assisted off the field by teammate Shahrukh Khan, with early indications pointing to a possible hamstring issue. Sai Kishore, GT’s left-arm spinner, was called upon to bowl the remaining deliveries of the over, ensuring the team completed the formalities of the innings.
Ishant’s figures for the match read 1/35 in 3.2 overs, with the wicket of Abhishek Sharma (74 off 41 balls) being his notable contribution. While his overall numbers in IPL 2025—four wickets in seven matches—may not reflect his full impact, Ishant’s experience and ability to deliver under pressure have been invaluable for GT. His sudden exit sparked immediate concern among fans, with social media platforms like X buzzing with reactions. One user noted, “Sai Kishore is bowling for the first time today at 20th over when Ishant Sharma got injured 🙃,” highlighting the unexpected nature of the substitution.
Ishant Sharma’s Resurgent IPL 2025 Campaign
At 36, Ishant Sharma has been a revelation for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2025, defying age and doubters with his disciplined bowling and strategic variations. After being sidelined from India’s Test team in 2022, Ishant worked closely with coach Steffan Jones to regain his rhythm and pace, making a strong comeback to the IPL. Jones’ data-driven approach, including the use of a pocket radar to monitor Ishant’s ball speed and manage fatigue, has been instrumental in his resurgence. “If there’s a stage where his delivery is too slow because it shows that he’s got fatigue, then the session is stopped,” Jones explained, emphasizing the meticulous care taken to prevent injuries like stress fractures, which are common among fast bowlers.
Ishant’s journey in IPL 2025 has been about more than just wickets. His ability to contain batters in crucial overs, as seen in his economical spell of 1/19 in three overs against Delhi Capitals on April 19, has added stability to GT’s bowling attack. Acquired for Rs 75 lakh at the IPL 2025 mega auction, Ishant has been a cost-effective asset, complementing the likes of Prasidh Krishna, who leads the Purple Cap race with 14 wickets, and Mohammed Siraj. However, this injury could disrupt the balance of a GT side that has won seven of their ten matches, positioning them as strong contenders for the playoffs.
Sai Kishore’s Steadfast Response
Stepping into the spotlight under pressure, Sai Kishore handled the situation with composure. The left-arm spinner, who had not bowled earlier in the match, delivered the final balls of Ishant’s over, ensuring SRH finished at 186/6 while chasing GT’s imposing total. Kishore’s ability to adapt was reminiscent of his performance against Delhi Capitals on April 19, where he bowled a tight final over, conceding just nine runs and dismissing Ashutosh Sharma. His contributions in IPL 2025 have been understated yet vital, with his disciplined bowling and sharp fielding earning praise from captain Shubman Gill and fans alike.
Kishore’s emergence as a reliable spinner has been a bright spot for GT, especially amidst concerns over Rashid Khan’s form earlier in the season. Defending Rashid against criticism, Kishore called him “the best T20 bowler in the world,” a testament to the team’s unity and belief in their key players. With Ishant’s injury casting uncertainty, Kishore’s role could become even more critical as GT navigates the business end of the tournament.
The Bigger Picture: Gujarat Titans’ Playoff Push
Gujarat Titans have been a dominant force in IPL 2025, with their batting led by Sai Sudharsan, who tops the run charts with 417 runs in eight games, and their bowling spearheaded by Prasidh Krishna. The team’s recent victories, including a 39-run thrashing of Kolkata Knight Riders and the win over SRH, have solidified their playoff chances. However, Ishant’s injury could test their depth, especially with a crucial match against Mumbai Indians looming on May 6 at the Wankhede Stadium.
The nature of Ishant’s injury remains unclear, with speculation ranging from a hamstring strain to a possible cramp. Earlier in the season, on April 19, Ishant struggled with dehydration during GT’s match against Delhi Capitals, leaving the field after bowling three overs. Fans on X expressed concern, with one stating, “Ishant Sharma ko kya ho gaya h bhai….pura dehydrated ho gaya h,” highlighting the toll of Ahmedabad’s heat. If the latest injury is indeed a hamstring issue, it could sideline him for several matches, forcing GT to rely on their bench strength, including players like Arshad Khan or potential replacements like Anrich Nortje or Beuran Hendricks.
Ishant’s History with Injuries
This is not the first time Ishant Sharma has faced injury concerns in the IPL. In 2020, he was ruled out of the entire season due to a left internal oblique muscle tear, and in 2024, an ankle injury forced him off the field during a match for Delhi Capitals. These setbacks underline the physical demands on fast bowlers, particularly veterans like Ishant, who rely on experience and guile to complement their pace. His ability to bounce back from these challenges, as seen in his IPL 2025 performances, speaks to his resilience and dedication.
Implications for Gujarat Titans
Ishant’s potential absence could disrupt GT’s bowling plans, particularly in the death overs, where his experience has been crucial. The team’s management will likely monitor his recovery closely, with the hope that the injury is minor. In the meantime, players like Sai Kishore, Mohammed Siraj, and Rashid Khan will need to step up, while captain Shubman Gill, who has led GT with tactical acumen, may need to shuffle his bowling combinations. Gill’s leadership has been a highlight, with his 215 runs in seven matches and playful off-field moments, such as his interaction with Ishant’s daughter at the airport, endearing him to fans.
Looking Ahead
As the IPL 2025 season intensifies, Gujarat Titans face a critical juncture. Ishant Sharma’s injury is a reminder of the fine margins in T20 cricket, where a single player’s absence can shift the balance. While Sai Kishore’s composure in finishing the over against SRH was commendable, GT will need their full arsenal to maintain their momentum. Fans will be eagerly awaiting updates on Ishant’s condition, hoping the veteran pacer can return to bolster their playoff campaign.
For now, the focus shifts to GT’s next challenge against Mumbai Indians, where they aim to consolidate their position at the top of the table. Ishant’s recovery timeline will be crucial, not just for GT but for Indian cricket, as his experience remains a valuable asset. As the IPL 2025 narrative unfolds, this injury could be a defining moment—either a stumbling block or an opportunity for GT’s squad depth to shine.
