Gujarat Titans, led by Shubam Gill, performed well last season in IPL 2025. They are eager to repeat the franchise’s success and win another IPL title.
They already have a strong, balanced squad, but management should think about making some changes in both player retention and the auction for IPL 2026. While most of their players will likely be kept, some surprises are expected.
This article will discuss the Gujarat Titans’ plans for retaining players in the IPL 2026 campaign, as well as the players they are likely to keep and release.
GT Squad in IPL 2025
Gujarat Titans entered IPL 2025 with a strong mix of domestic stars and international power. They retained their core and made smart additions to shore up both batting and bowling.
Squad
Shubman Gill (c), Rashid Khan, Sai Sudharsan, Rahul Tewatia, Shahrukh Khan, Jos Buttler, Mohammed Siraj, Kagiso Rabada, Prasidh Krishna, Washington Sundar, Gerald Coetzee, Manav Suthar, Mahipal Lomror, Glenn Phillips, Anuj Rawat, Kumar Kushagra, Nishant Sindhu, Arshad Khan, Gurnoor Brar, Sherfane Rutherford, Ishant Sharma, Jayant Yadav, Karim Janat, Kulwant Khejroliya
They retained core players like Gill, Rashid, Sai Sudharsan, Rahul Tewatia, and Shahrukh Khan.
Then in the auction, GT signed impact names such as Rabada, Buttler, Siraj, Prasidh, Sundar, Coetzee, Rutherford and others to build depth and balance.
GT Player Retentions 2026
Gujarat Titans are likely to keep their key performing stars. This approach will help maintain continuity as they prepare to improve weak areas with smart auction purchases.
They will aim to retain reliable top-order and spin match-winners while possibly letting go of more expensive or underperforming players.
Here is the expected player retention for GT before IPL 2026:
- Batters & WKs: Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler, Anuj Rawat, Kumar Kushagra
- All‑Rounders: Rashid Khan, Rahul Tewatia, Washington Sundar
- Bowlers: Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gerald Coetzee
| Player | Reason for Retention |
|---|---|
| Shubman Gill | Captain and dependable opener |
| Sai Sudharshan | Rising star and consistent scorer |
| Jos Buttler | Overseas match-winner and experienced top-order batter |
| Anuj Rawat | Backup wicketkeeper-batter with domestic potential |
| Kumar Kushagra | Young Indian keeper with long-term promise |
| Rashid Khan | Spin match-winner and crucial balance for the side |
| Rahul Tewatia | Reliable finisher and utility with both bat and ball |
| Washington Sundar | Versatile all-rounder offering depth |
| Kagiso Rabada | Lead strike pacer with experience |
| Mohammed Siraj | Indian pace spearhead and developing force |
| Prasidh Krishna | Descent pace option with upside |
| Gerald Coetzee | Overseas fast-bowling depth option |
GT Expected Player Releases for IPL 2026
As Gujarat Titans prepare for the IPL 2026 mini-auction, they are expected to release a few players who didn’t perform consistently or no longer fit into the team’s future plans. This move will help them manage their budget, open up overseas slots, and make room for key signings.
Here are the likely player releases for IPL 2026:
- Ishant Sharma (Bowler): Took only 4 wickets in 7 games with a high economy rate; age and form are concerns.
- Karim Janat (All-Rounder): Played just one match and made no major impact; likely to be replaced by a more reliable overseas option.
- Manav Suthar (All-Rounder): Did not feature in the playing XI in 2025 and remains on the fringes.
- Dasun Shanaka (All-Rounder): Did not play any matches in 2025 and faces tough competition for overseas slots.
GT’s Expected Strategy for IPL 2026 Auction
Gujarat Titans will aim to strengthen smartly in the 2026 auction without undoing their foundation. They’ll look to plug gaps in the middle order and pace attack, while preserving their top-order stars. With a mixed core of youth and experience, they’ll balance stability with targeted upgrades.
Key Strategies:
- Add reliable middle-order batters to support Gill, Buttler and prevent collapse in the 6–15 overs.
- Bolster power‑hitting and finishing depth with versatile all‑rounders or finishers.
- Focus on death and powerplay pace options for flexibility across overs.
- Seek additional spin variety to partner Rashid Khan.
- Invest in budget value picks to maintain room for marquee buys elsewhere.
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Conclusion: GT Will Look to Fill Gaps with Smart Signings!
Gujarat Titans are expected to retain key players like Shubman Gill, Rashid Khan, and Sai Sudharsan, based on early reports. These players have been consistent performers and form the backbone of the team across departments.
If these retentions go through, it would show the management’s intention to keep the core intact and maintain team chemistry. It also signals that they want to build on what worked well for them in the last season.
Overall, GT is likely to focus on continuity by backing reliable names. Their expected retention suggests a clear plan to stay competitive without making major changes.
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