Gujarat Titans (GT) suffered a loss in their first game of the IPL 2025 season, against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Ahmedabad. In the second game in front of the home crowd, Shubman Gill and his men will look to make a comeback against Mumbai Indians (MI). But, ahead of that season opener, RevSportz’s Editor-in-Chief, Boria Majumdar, had a free-wheeling chat with GT’s assistant and batting coach, Parthiv Patel for Back.
He shared his journey, from being a player with distinction, then a broadcaster and then evolving into the coaching-set up for the Gujarat Titans. He talked about the franchise, the future of Indian wicketkeeping, the feeling of finally getting associated with his home team and much more.
Having played in the IPL with distinction and been associated with multiple franchises in the past, how has the experience been transitioning into the coaching setup as the assistant and batting coach for Gujarat Titans? What is it like working with Ashish [Nehra], Shubman [Gill], and the rest of the boys at GT?
I have been working in broadcasting for a while now, but being on the ground is a completely different high. Especially joining a team like Gujarat Titans, which has already built a legacy in just three years, is a special feeling.
It is not easy to create a strong fan base and establish a unique style of cricket in such a short time, but GT has managed to do that. So, it feels great to be a part of this team. And, of course, it gives me immense pleasure to be part of my home team.
Everyone knows I have played for six or seven different teams, but I never got the chance to play for my home team in the IPL. So, being part of Gujarat Titans now feels even more special.
You have been a part of many IPL setups. What do you think distinguishes Gujarat Titans from the rest of the teams?
See, every franchise has its own way of functioning. So, I would not go into details about how different franchises operate, their style of play, or the facilities they provide off the field. But I think Gujarat Titans is right up there among the best.
For me, the biggest thing I have experienced here is the atmosphere GT has managed to create—where everyone is welcomed and taken care of. It does not matter whether you are Shubman Gill or the 25th player in the squad; everyone is treated equally and valued.
It is not just about the players. Their families and every aspect—on the ground and off the ground—is looked after. When you come here and experience it, you truly feel it. The moment you step into the team room, you know that everything has been taken care of.
How is it working with Ashish Nehra now as a coach, after having played together for many years at the India level? And where did he get his cap from, which has really stood out this season?
He started the trend, and now everyone has that cap. So, you might see the entire coaching staff wearing it this year! But that is just who he is—he brings unbelievable energy, and that really stands out.
Ashish has a brilliant cricketing mind. He understands the game, knows when to react, how to react, and how to keep everyone engaged and united as a team. That is what makes him special, and it is difficult to put into words. But one thing is certain—he ensures that everyone is comfortable.
Every player is taken care of, whether it is their skills, hydration, or anything else they need. He treats everyone at the same level, no matter who they are. And the best part is, he is always available—24×7. Not just by saying it, but by actually being there for everyone, all the time.
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What do you have to say about Shubman Gill as a captain, leader, and batter, and the inclusion of Jos Buttler in Gujarat Titans?
This was my first long interaction with Shubman Gill. I had met him a few times before, but we never had such an in-depth conversation. He comes across as very calm and hardworking.
He knows exactly what he wants to achieve in this IPL and in his career. He is very focused, and the biggest thing about him is that he believes in staying in the present.
Right now, he has everything to achieve. He is the vice-captain of India’s ODI side and a regular in Test cricket. There is a lot ahead for him, but his mindset is to stay in the present and focus on the job at hand. Now that he is leading Gujarat Titans in the IPL, he wants to win the tournament, score runs, and contribute in every way possible.
With the experience he has, he also spends time with young players, both on and off the field. In the team room, he interacts a lot with his teammates. He has all the qualities of a leader that teams look for.
Now, coming to Jos Buttler. Heading into the auction, he was our top priority pick. That was something we wanted—we wanted to build the team around him and Shubman Gill. Jos is an experienced player who has done a lot for the IPL and England. Plus, we were looking for a wicketkeeper-batter.
Wriddhi (Wriddhiman Saha) did a great job for three years, but we had to look ahead. And when you look at someone like Jos Buttler, he not only brings his batting ability but also leadership qualities. That is why he was the perfect choice. Out of all the wicketkeepers available, he was undoubtedly the No.1 pick.
Your thoughts on Sai Sudharsan and the possibility of him having a breakout season this IPL?
I think you put the nail on the head by saying that he has a very bright future. He is someone who can actually go on to represent India in all three formats. He is technically very sound.
On top of everything, he is extremely hardworking. He goes into the nets at 2:30 in the afternoon and comes out at 7:30. He can just bat, bat, and bat. That is what he usually does.
But beyond that, he has a very calm head on his shoulders and understands the game well. Coming from the family he does, that background also helps. He knows the importance of recovery—it is not just about cricket but also about being fresh and ready for the game. So, fingers crossed! Hopefully, he will have a great season and a bright future ahead.
Thoughts on the array of glittering talent in the IPL as far as wicketkeeping is concerned. Thoughts from Parthiv Patel – the wicketkeeper’s point of view.
It is fascinating to see the kind of wicketkeepers India has right now. It all depends on them. As you said, all of them are capable of representing India in any format—be it KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Ishan Kishan, or Dhruv Jurel.
It is just about how each of them handles pressure. They will all get opportunities at different times. It is not that one player will be constant. When an opportunity comes, the one who grabs it with a standout performance will move ahead.
So, it all comes down to handling pressure. It is not about skill because all of them have that. It is about how they perform under pressure and bring out their best in such a competitive environment.
This will be an interesting phase for Indian wicketkeepers. And remember, all of them are leaders. KL Rahul has captained in the IPL. Rishabh Pant is leading right now. Ishan Kishan has led teams. Sanju Samson is a leader. Dhruv Jurel also has the qualities to be one—I have interacted with him.
This is a great sign. You have wicketkeepers who are not just batters but also capable leaders. Even if they are not the captain, they can contribute as leaders on the field. That is a big positive for Indian wicketkeeping.
Your thoughts on Mohammed Siraj?
I have played with him at RCB as well. Nothing has changed. Obviously, he has achieved a lot of success in Test cricket and has taken many wickets. Even after setbacks, he still wants to do well. It is very easy to drift away after facing a tough phase, but he has not let that happen.
He is working hard and is determined to make a comeback into the Indian side. Above all, he looks happy. When you are playing at this level, being in a good frame of mind is crucial—and Mohammed Siraj looks like he is in the right space.
Also Read: “He is a bowler’s captain” – Mohammed Siraj on Shubman Gill