IPL 2026: RR vs GT, Match 52 - Top player battles to watch out for

Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Gujarat Titans (GT) are set to lock horns in match No. 52 of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on Saturday, May 9.

Riyan Parag-led Royals are returning to action after a week-long gap. They have six wins and four defeats from 10 matches. After starting the season with four consecutive wins, the inaugural champions have lost four in the last six matches they have played.

Meanwhile, the Gujarat Titans have also won six matches and lost four. They are sitting at No. 5 on the points table, one spot below the Royals due to an inferior net run rate than Parag and Co. Shubman Gill and Co. are on a three-match winning streak.

Here are the top player battles to watch out for from Match 52:

Sai Sudharsan vs Nandre Burger

Sai Sudharsan and Nandre Burger. (Photo Source: IPL/BCCI)

Sai Sudharsan had a slow start but he has rediscovered his form midway through the season. In 10 innings, he has scored 385 runs at an average of 38.50 and a strike rate of 158.44. The southpaw has registered three fifties and one century so far.

Meanwhile, his battle with Nandre Burger will be intriguing to watch. The left-arm seamer has blown hot and cold but if he gets things right, he could pose challenges for the in-form batter with his ability to swing the ball both ways at good pace.