Last years’ finalists Gujarat Titans Australian wicketkeeper-batter Matthew Wade has been ruled out of the initial two matches of the 17th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) with the Aussie batter choosing to represent Tasmania in the Sheffield Cup final which will take place from March 21-25. With Gujarat beginning their campaign on March 24, the team has been already notified of the decision from Matthew Wade.

The Gujarat Titans, led by Shubman Gill, will face Mumbai Indians in their highly anticipated opening match on March 24 in Ahmedabad. Despite Wade’s absence, which wasn’t pivotal given his limited involvement in the team’s past seasons, the Titans remain confident. Wade participated in 10 matches during their victorious 2022 season but didn’t feature at all last year, despite being part of the squad in India.

Tasmania head coach Jeff Vaughan expressed satisfaction at Wade’s availability for the domestic red-ball tournament final. Gujarat’s next match is against Chennai Super Kings in Chennai on March 26, a rematch of last year’s final.

“He’s spoken with his IPL franchise and they’re happy to allow him to stay here, which probably equates to him potentially missing their first game,” Tasmania head coach Jeff Vaughan told reporters in Hobart.

‘We feel very fortunate to have someone of Matt’s ilk coming back into our group, and his experience and his performances at the back end of our season,” said Vaughan.

With all eyes on the new season, Gujarat had already been aware of their star pacer Mohd Shami ruled out of the campaign due to his recent surgery on the ankle.

Wicket-keeping Options

Gujarat Titans do have a backup option in mind in terms of a wicketkeeper-batter in the name of Wriddhiman Saha. They also boast the big-hitting Robin Minz from Jharkhand, who was acquired by the Titans for Rs 3.6 crore in the IPL 2024 auction.

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