Like Indian Premier League (IPL) Those going for the auction in 2026, teams are expected to make some tough calls. For Gujarat Titans (GT)the decision-making process will revolve around retaining a core group of match-winners who can guide the franchise to its former glory. Having lifted the IPL trophy in their Debut Season in 2022 and graduated the players in 2023, the Titans have built a strong brand around consistency and smart recruitment.
GT campaign in IPL 2025: A promise that ends in heartache
In the IPL 2025 season, the Titans had an impressive run in the league stage, finishing fourth in the points table with nine wins. Consistency, team depth and consistency in the first half of the tournament, with several players stepping up at crucial moments. However, their campaign came to a disappointing close in an Eliminator clash against Mumbai Indians led by their former captain Hardik Pandya.
Despite a strong start and a well-balanced batting unit, GT fell short when it mattered most. An inability to convert solid foundations into match-winning performances in the knockout stages cost them dearly. In addition, form and availability issues around several key high-value players affected the team’s rhythm during critical matches. While the Titans once again displayed their trademark handling and strategic depth, the early play-off exit was a reminder that experience and composition underpinning the IPL remain crucial in the closing stages.
3 Foreign players can keep GT, IPL 2026 ahead
Heading into the 2026 auction, GT will aim to maintain its strongest foreign core while addressing the shortcomings limiting its title ambitions in 2025.
Rashid Khan – Face of Gujarat Titans Bowling Attack
- Role: Leg-spinner
- Price in 2025: INR 18 crores
- Performance in 2025: 9 wickets in 15 matches as 2/25 best
Rashid Khan He has been the backbone of GT’s bowling unit since the inception of the franchise. Although 2025 was not his longest season, his economy rate and match awareness remained invaluable. Rashid’s ability to control the midfield, frustrate and provide progress makes him indispensable.
The Afghan leg-spinner’s field experience and leadership also helped the young players impress under pressure. Once again, GT management is expected to bring back Rashid so that the off-season doesn’t reduce his long-term value. As the team is reshuffled for IPL 2026, Rashid is likely to continue to be their outlier.
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Kagiso Rabada – speed, aggression and redemption on the horizon
- Role: Fast bowler
- Price in 2025: INR 10.75 crore
- Performance in 2025: 2 wickets in 4 matches with 1/41
Kagiso Rabada‘s 2025 season was marred by controversy as he was handed a one-month provisional suspension earlier in the year after testing positive for a recreational drug. Even though he hasn’t left, GT management is very high on his experience and potential for influence.
When fit and available, Rabada remains one of the most feared fast bowlers in T20 cricket. Creating PACE, delivering Lethal Yorkers and executing under duress makes him a valuable asset. The Titans are expected to confirm Rabada as a buy-back and a proven brand as a match-winner in their top-tier situations.
Sherfane Rutherford – a powerful revelation
- Role: Bury
- Price in 2025: INR 2.60 crores
- Performance in 2025: 291 runs in 13 games with 22 fours and 18 sixes
Sherfane Rutherford Season 2025 has emerged as one of the biggest positives for the Gujarat Titans. The West Indian left-hander bowled some impressive innings which turned the tide in GT’s favour. His strike rate, fearless approach and ability to finish games make him a natural choice to catch.
Given his relatively low price tag and rising form, retaining Rutherford offers excellent value for money. He has transformed from a support player to a true match-winner capable of anchoring the middle order or accelerating at the death. With the franchise looking for young, dynamic talent to balance the mix overseas, Rutherford’s retention seems almost certain.
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