‘Predictable’ – GT’s bowling is ‘a bit like SRH’s batting,’ says Tom Moody – Tom Moody Critiques GT’s Predictable Bowling Attack in IPL 2026

The Anatomy of a Bowling Collapse

The IPL 2026 Qualifier 1 clash between Gujarat Titans (GT) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) served as a stark reminder that even the most formidable bowling units can be dismantled when conditions refuse to cooperate. As the RCB top-order batters aggressively dismantled the bowling of Kagiso Rabada and Mohammed Siraj, observers were left wondering whether the Titans’ reputation as a bowling powerhouse was built on a foundation that lacks essential flexibility.

The ‘Predictability’ Problem

Between them, Rabada and Siraj—who have built their reputations on hitting hard lengths and utilizing swing—conceded 100 runs across seven overs, managing only two wickets. Tom Moody, the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) global director of cricket, did not mince his words when discussing the limitations of this specific attack. According to Moody, the primary issue lies in a lack of variety.

“When there’s zero movement in the surface, that’s when they’re vulnerable, because they don’t have the real extreme change-ups of pace and variety,” Moody remarked during his appearance on ESPNcricinfo TimeOut. He drew a compelling parallel: “They do become predictable. It’s a bit like Sunrisers Hyderabad. As soon as Sunrisers are put on a surface that’s doing a bit, that batting line-up really struggles. So it’s the complete opposite.”

Lack of Deception and ‘Plan B’

The critique centers on the inability of the GT bowlers to adapt when the pitch is flat and the ball isn’t moving. Unlike bowlers who possess a deep arsenal of slower balls, cutters, or deceptive variations, the GT frontline quicks rely heavily on a singular methodology. Moody noted that while these bowlers might have the technical ability to execute variations, these are not their go-to weapons.

Ambati Rayudu echoed these sentiments, suggesting that the team lacks a secondary strategy. “You can only be so good, but on a given day a batsman goes after you, what is your plan B? You don’t have great slower balls. You don’t bowl defensive bowling up top. Sometimes you need to go defensive on surfaces that are very, very good, to become attacking again after you get a wicket,” Rayudu explained.

The Dharamsala Reality Check

The match in Dharamsala highlighted the contrast between a team that thrives in a ‘fortress’ environment—likely referring to the supportive pitches of Ahmedabad—and one that struggles when faced with different conditions. RCB capitalized on this, smashing 76 runs in the powerplay, with Venkatesh Iyer, Devdutt Padikkal, and Virat Kohli striking at exceptionally high rates. Rajat Patidar eventually put the game out of reach with a blistering 93 off just 33 balls.

Tactical Missteps at the Toss?

The debate extended to the decision-making process, specifically the choice to field first. While chasing had been successful in previous games at the venue, Rayudu argued that the Titans should have leaned into their primary strength: defending totals.

“I told a friend yesterday, their best chance is to lose the toss,” Rayudu stated. He recalled advice from legendary captain Ricky Ponting, who often emphasized the importance of putting runs on the board under pressure. The logic is simple yet effective: identify your core strength and commit to it. If the Titans are a team defined by their bowling, they should set targets and force the opposition to face that pressure.

Concluding Thoughts

The loss for the Gujarat Titans serves as a masterclass in tactical inflexibility. As the tournament reaches its business end, the ability to pivot when plans are failing becomes the hallmark of a champion. For GT, the path forward likely requires a re-evaluation of their defensive options and a willingness to embrace variety, ensuring they are not merely a one-trick pony when the conditions turn against them.

Ultimately, cricket remains a game of adjustments. As Moody pointed out, until the Titans can develop the deception required to stop top-tier batters on flat tracks, they will continue to face the same “tough examination” whenever the ball stops swinging.