GT batting coach Matthew Hayden seeks more cohesion in run chases

Ahmedabad: Gujarat Titans batting coach Matthew Hayden pinpointed a lack of batting cohesion as the critical factor in his side’s six-run defeat to Rajasthan Royals at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Chasing 211, the Titans appeared in control at 103 for one after ten overs before the innings unravelled, leaving Hayden to lament the fine margins that decided the contest.

Reflecting on the narrow loss, Hayden acknowledged that the bowlers were also slightly off key. “A lot of our bowlers were just a little bit off their rhythm. Rabada’s figures were a bit more expensive than perhaps what he bowled today. I thought he was actually good, and the same with Rashid. Siraj had an off day. I want the bowlers to keep consistently bowling their best ball,” he said.

The former Australia opener emphasised that small moments had outsized impact. “We’re talking about six runs. So those little things in T20 cricket, when you’re chasing down a big total, they become vital in the decision-making process of a batting unit. We just need that little bit of cohesion in our entire batting lineup,” Hayden added, singling out the wickets of Washington Sundar and M Shahrukh Khan as the turning points.

With the defeat exposing the gap between promise and execution, Hayden’s message was clear: every batter must align their approach to ensure the chase stays on course until the final ball.