The Gujarat Titans have included Kulwant Khejroliya in their playing XI for the crucial IPL 2026 Qualifier 1 against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). This decision came as a surprise to many, considering Khejroliya’s unique journey in the Indian Premier League.
Kulwant Khejroliya: A Rising Star
Kulwant Khejroliya, born on March 13, 1992, in Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, is a left-arm medium-fast bowler. He began his cricket career playing for Delhi and Madhya Pradesh in domestic leagues. His professional breakthrough occurred in 2017 when he was signed by the Mumbai Indians following a standout performance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Although he remained on the bench that season, his talent did not go unnoticed.
Journey through IPL Teams
- 2017: Signed by Mumbai Indians but did not play.
- 2018: Joined Royal Challengers Bengaluru for INR 85 lakh.
- 2021: Played two matches for Kolkata Knight Riders, taking two wickets.
- 2022: Part of Delhi Capitals but did not feature in games.
- 2025: Acquired by Gujarat Titans, appearing in only one game.
Throughout his IPL career to date, Khejroliya has participated in eight matches, securing six wickets. In total T20 matches, he has played 26 times, amassing 27 wickets with a best bowling figure of 4/26.
IPL 2026 Qualifier 1 Details
During the toss, Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill announced the decision to bowl first. Khejroliya replaced Arshad Khan in the lineup. Gill noted the wicket’s condition and the potential influence of dew in the second innings. The decision was vital as the Titans faced RCB, a team Khejroliya previously represented.
Current Playing XIs
| Gujarat Titans (Playing XI) | Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Playing XI) |
|---|---|
| Sai Sudharsan | Venkatesh Iyer |
| Shubman Gill (c) | Virat Kohli |
| Jos Buttler (w) | Devdutt Padikkal |
| Washington Sundar | Rajat Patidar (c) |
| Nishant Sindhu | Jitesh Sharma (w) |
| Jason Holder | Tim David |
| Rashid Khan | Krunal Pandya |
| Kulwant Khejroliya | Bhuvneshwar Kumar |
| Kagiso Rabada | Jacob Duffy |
| Mohammed Siraj | Josh Hazlewood |
| Prasidh Krishna | Rasikh Salam Dar |
As the match unfolds, Khejroliya’s performance will be critical for the Gujarat Titans against his former team, making this encounter significant for the fast bowler. His growth in the league reflects the evolving nature of young talent in Indian cricket.
