Gurugram Thunders vs Rajasthan Lions Match Preview – 27 January 2026, 09:00 GMT

Match Details

• Date: Tuesday, 27 January 2026
• Time: 09:00 AM GMT / 02:30 PM IST
• Venue: 1919 Sportz Cricket Stadium, Verna, Goa
• Series: World Legends Pro T20 League
• Match: 2nd T20

Pitch & Weather Conditions

The 1919 Sportz Cricket Stadium in Goa is set to host a thrilling T20 encounter under clear skies. The pitch is expected to be neutral, offering equal opportunities for both batters and bowlers. With a temperature of around 30°C, 34% humidity, and a wind speed of 21.4 km/h, the conditions are ideal for a high-scoring game. The neutral nature of the pitch may favor fast bowlers slightly, especially with the wind assisting movement, but the lack of assistance for spin makes it a balanced surface overall.

Team Squads

Gurugram Thunders (GTH) Playing 11

1. Phil Mustard
2. Sheldon Jackson (WK)
3. Ross Taylor
4. Cheteshwar Pujara
5. Colin de Grandhomme
6. Thisara Perera (C)
7. Pawan Negi
8. Rayad Emrit
9. Malinda Pushpakumara
10. Stuart Broad
11. Sreesanth

Rajasthan Lions (RJL) Playing 11

1. Naman Ojha
2. Callum Ferguson
3. Suresh Raina
4. Eoin Morgan (C)
5. JeanPaul Duminy
6. Ben Cutting
7. Elton Chigumbura
8. Jesal Karia
9. Anureet Singh
10. Abhimanyu Mithun
11. Bipul Sharma

Team Analysis

Gurugram Thunders – Balanced Attack and Experience

Gurugram Thunders enter this match with a well-rounded squad, combining experienced internationals with explosive T20 specialists. Phil Mustard and Sheldon Jackson open the innings, offering a strong start with their aggressive approach. The middle order is anchored by Cheteshwar Pujara and Ross Taylor, both of whom can stabilize the innings and push the score further. Thisara Perera, the captain, will play a crucial role with both bat and ball, while Stuart Broad and Sreesanth provide a potent pace attack.

The spin department is led by Pawan Negi and Colin de Grandhomme, giving the Thunders flexibility in the middle overs. The team’s balance and depth could be key to their success, especially in a tight contest.

Rajasthan Lions – A Team of Experience and Power

Rajasthan Lions have a squad brimming with T20 experience and firepower. Naman Ojha and Callum Ferguson are expected to open the innings, and their aggressive start could put pressure on the opposition. Eoin Morgan, the captain, brings leadership and a calm presence, while Suresh Raina and JeanPaul Duminy offer stability in the middle overs.

The Lions' bowling attack is a blend of pace and spin. Anureet Singh and Abhimanyu Mithun are the main fast bowlers, while JeanPaul Duminy and Shadab Jakati (though not in the playing XI) can trouble batters with their spin. With a balanced squad and a strong captaincy in Morgan, Rajasthan Lions are a team to be reckoned with.

Key Players to Watch

Gurugram Thunders

• Thisara Perera (C): A versatile all-rounder who can change the game with both bat and ball.
• Cheteshwar Pujara: A reliable middle-order anchor with a calm and calculated approach.
• Stuart Broad: A proven T20 finisher who can dismantle the opposition with his pace and accuracy.
• Phil Mustard: Explosive opener who can take the game away from the opposition early on.

Rajasthan Lions

• Eoin Morgan (C): A seasoned leader who can guide the side through tight situations.
• Suresh Raina: A match-winner in the middle overs, capable of accelerating the innings.
• JeanPaul Duminy: Offers balance with his batting and spin bowling.
• Anureet Singh: A death-overs specialist who can defend crucial runs.

Toss & Strategy Prediction

With the pitch favoring fast bowlers slightly and the weather ideal for batting, Rajasthan Lions are predicted to win the toss and choose to bat first. This would allow them to post a competitive total and use their pace attack to defend it. However, if Gurugram Thunders win the toss and decide to bat, they could capitalize on the neutral conditions to post a formidable score.

Fantasy Cricket Tips

• Must-Have Picks:

  • Thisara Perera (GTH) – 572 points
  • Phil Mustard (GTH) – 490 points
  • Eoin Morgan (RJL) – 480 points
  • Suresh Raina (RJL) – 450 points

• Risky but Rewarding Picks:

  • Cheteshwar Pujara (GTH)
  • Stuart Broad (GTH)
  • Bipul Sharma (RJL)
  • Malinda Pushpakumara (GTH)

• Expert Advice:
  Prioritize batters for the top order and fast bowlers for the death overs. Keep an eye on the weather conditions closer to the match, as any changes could influence the fantasy picks.

Match Prediction

While Gurugram Thunders have a strong and balanced squad, Rajasthan Lions are considered the slight favorites for this match. Their experienced leadership under Eoin Morgan, combined with a potent middle-order and a reliable bowling attack, gives them an edge. However, cricket is unpredictable, and the performance on the day will ultimately decide the winner.

Live Streaming & Updates

• Live Streaming: FanCode
• Live Scores: ESPNcricinfo, Cricbuzz, Possible11
• App Updates: Download official apps for real-time commentary, updates, and fantasy insights.

Final Thoughts

The clash between Gurugram Thunders and Rajasthan Lions promises to be a high-quality T20 encounter, with both teams boasting strong squads and experienced leaders. The neutral pitch and favorable weather conditions should lead to a high-scoring match. Fantasy players and cricket fans alike are in for a treat as the action unfolds at 09:00 GMT on 27 January 2026.
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