Key takeaways from the match:

• Jos Buttler scored an impressive 73 not out to help Gujarat Titans secure an eight-wicket victory.
• Mohammed Siraj's exceptional bowling performance included three wickets for just 19 runs.
• This victory handed Royal Challengers Bengaluru their first loss of the IPL season.

In an exhilarating encounter at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Gujarat Titans triumphed over Royal Challengers Bengaluru with an eight-wicket win, marking the latter's first defeat of the IPL 2025 season. The star of the match, Jos Buttler, made a sparkling 73 runs off just 39 balls, guiding his team to chase down a target of 170 runs with 13 balls to spare.

Buttler's innings, which included five fours and six sixes, was a testament to his newfound freedom on the field after recently stepping down from the England captaincy due to a disappointing run at the Champions Trophy. "I had a few months of pretty unenjoyable cricket," Buttler admitted after the match. His intention was clear: to channel his frustrations into performance, aiming to give his best in a fresh environment with Gujarat.

Earlier in the match, the Titans struggled briefly in the field, with Buttler dropping a catch off opener Phil Salt early on. However, they quickly regained composure as Mohammed Siraj wreaked havoc with the ball, taking three crucial wickets, including that of Virat Kohli, as Bengaluru stumbled to 42-4. Liam Livingstone emerged as a bright spot for the RCB, scoring 54 runs and providing a much-needed anchor as the team posted 169-8.

Reflecting on the match, Buttler remarked on the clinical performance of his bowlers, especially Siraj, who brought intensity and focus to the game. "The bowlers did a fantastic job. If we had fielded a bit better, we would be chasing a few less runs," he said, emphasizing the team's improvement.

With this victory, Gujarat Titans are starting to find their form, showcasing their potential for the rest of the IPL season. Buttler's role in steering the ship both with the bat and as a team player will be pivotal as they seek greater success.

For more details, read the full articles at BBC, Channel News Asia, and Reuters.