Sherfane Rutherford: From IPL Benchwarmer to Gujarat Titans’ Game-Changer

Sherfane Rutherford: From IPL Benchwarmer to Gujarat Titans’ Silent Star

When you talk about Sherfane Rutherford, you’re talking about a player who’s had a roller-coaster IPL journey. Two IPL titles in the bag but zero matches played during those winning seasons — sounds unusual, right? Rutherford was part of the Mumbai Indians squad in 2020 and later the Kolkata Knight Riders in 2024, but never got to take the field in those campaigns. Before IPL 2025, his IPL journey was a series of near misses. Over five seasons, with five different franchises—including Sunrisers Hyderabad as a replacement in 2021—he managed to play only ten games. Yet, this season has seen a remarkable change. He has finally shaken off the tag of just a backup player, moving beyond the shadows of big names like Kieron Pollard and Andre Russell. Now, with the Gujarat Titans (GT), Rutherford has crafted his own identity.

The Rise of a Middle-Order Maverick

Most cricket fans associate Gujarat Titans’ explosive batting with stars like Shubman Gill, B Sai Sudharsan, and Jos Buttler, who have been piling runs at the top of the order. But Rutherford’s role has been different — quieter but no less impactful. This IPL season, he’s emerged as a crucial cog in the middle order. With 267 runs in just ten innings and a blistering strike rate of 157.05 (as of May 27), Rutherford’s numbers speak volumes. To put that into perspective, his strike rate is better than other overseas middle-order batsmen like Tristan Stubbs and Shimron Hetmyer.

What’s exciting here is that nobody really expected Rutherford to start the season ahead of someone like Glenn Phillips, let alone bat at the No. 4 spot. But the GT coaching staff, led by Ashish Nehra, had faith in his ability to anchor innings and finish them strongly. This belief from management has proved well-placed.

IPL: The Biggest Learning Curve

For Rutherford, the IPL has always been more than just a tournament — it’s been a masterclass, a chance to learn from the best. “Every time I come to the IPL, I try to learn as much as I can from players and coaches,” he says. This season, having a consistent run with GT feels like the breakthrough he’s long awaited.

“It’s been an opportunity I was looking forward to throughout my IPL career,” Rutherford adds. His mindset is clear: keep learning, keep improving, grab every chance, and make it count for both himself and the team.

Overcoming Early IPL Setbacks

The start to his IPL 2025 campaign wasn’t easy. In one of the early matches, while chasing a daunting 244 runs against Punjab Kings, Rutherford looked promising — hitting two sixes and a four in his first five balls. But then, he struggled against the wide yorkers of Vijaykumar Vyshak, unable to keep the momentum. The chase slipped away from Gujarat Titans, and it was a disappointing moment for him.

Interestingly, Rutherford has always been known for his ability to hit wide deliveries, especially those outside off stump. In fact, since 2021, he’s had a strike rate of nearly 180 against such balls in T20 cricket. “Hitting wide balls over cover has been one of my strengths, especially in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL),” he says.

Reflecting on that Punjab game, Rutherford admits, “Some days you’re not up to the mark, and that was one of those days for me. But I’m willing to take on that challenge again and not dwell on it.”

The Comeback: A Crucial Win Against Delhi Capitals

Rutherford didn’t let that setback define his season. Less than a month later, he was back with a bang against Delhi Capitals. GT needed 130 runs from 75 balls — a tricky situation. Coming to the crease alongside Jos Buttler, Rutherford played a thoughtful, measured innings scoring 43 runs off 34 balls. His performance helped Gujarat Titans pull off their first-ever successful chase of a 200-plus target in the IPL.

Talking about Buttler, Rutherford shares, “Jos is so calm and experienced. The main advice was to just focus on the ball, forget the score, and play each delivery on merit.” This calm approach helped Rutherford balance aggression with responsibility, hitting sixes when needed but also rotating the strike smartly.

IPL Evolution Mirrors Personal Growth

Rutherford’s growth isn’t just about IPL stats. His overall game has evolved into a blend of skill, maturity, and adaptability. A landmark moment came during the 2024 T20 World Cup in a tense match against New Zealand in Trinidad. The West Indies were struggling early, losing four wickets in the powerplay on a tough pitch. Rutherford walked in and slowly rebuilt the innings before launching a finishing assault against New Zealand’s bowling, especially targeting Daryl Mitchell.

His unbeaten 68 runs off just 39 balls combined grit and flair — the kind of innings that speaks volumes about a player’s temperament. “That game needed serious batsmanship, and I felt I did well,” he recalls.

This innings highlighted Rutherford’s intent to be more than just a big hitter. “I want to be a batter, not just a hitter,” he says. His commitment to learning and evolving is clear: adapting to the changing nature of the game and expanding his skillset.

Lessons from Legends: The Dwayne Bravo Connection

Rutherford’s journey has been influenced significantly by some cricketing greats, especially Dwayne Bravo. The legendary all-rounder captained and mentored Rutherford during the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots’ maiden CPL title win in 2021. Bravo’s experience and leadership have played a big part in shaping Rutherford’s approach to the game, helping him mature both on and off the field.

What Makes Sherfane Rutherford Special?

• Versatile Middle-Order Player: Can anchor innings or finish with a flourish depending on the match situation.

• Impressive Strike Rate: Among the highest for overseas middle-order batters in IPL 2025.

• Adaptability: Learns and evolves with every game, always looking to add new skills.

• Mental Strength: Handles setbacks with a positive mindset and bounces back quickly.

• Influence of Mentors: Benefited from top-level coaching and mentorship, notably from Dwayne Bravo.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future with Gujarat Titans

Sherfane Rutherford’s 2025 IPL season has been a statement of intent. After years of limited opportunities and being the understudy to big names, he has finally found a stage to showcase his talent and confidence. With Gujarat Titans trusting him to play a pivotal role, Rutherford is aiming to keep improving and make every game count.

His journey so far reflects the spirit of many cricketers from the Caribbean and beyond, who come into the IPL hungry for success and recognition. For fans, Rutherford is becoming the kind of player to watch out for — a silent achiever, a dependable middle-order batter with the knack for turning matches around.

Final Word from Sherfane Rutherford

“I just want to keep learning, keep evolving, and be someone who can make a difference regularly. Cricket keeps changing, and I want to grow with it. This IPL is a big chance, and I’m excited to take it further.”