In form of Indian Premier League (IPL) Gearing up for their auction in 2026, teams are expected to make some tough retention calls. For Gujarat Titans (GT)The decision-making process will revolve around retaining a core group of match-winners who can take the franchise back to its former glory. After lifting the IPL trophy in their debut season in 2022 and finishing runners-up in 2023, the Titans have built a strong brand around consistency and smart recruitment.
GT campaign in IPL 2025: A season of promise that ended with heartbreak
In the IPL 2025 season, the Titans performed impressively during the league stage and finished fourth on the points table with nine wins. Their consistency throughout the first half of the tournament demonstrated the team’s depth and adaptability, with several players stepping up at key moments. However, their campaign ended on a disappointing note in the eliminator encounter against Mumbai Indians under the leadership of their former captain hardik pandya,
Despite a strong start and a well-balanced batting unit, GT faltered when it mattered most. The inability to convert a solid base into match-winning performances cost them dearly in the knockout stages. Additionally, form and availability issues of some key high-value players affected the team’s rhythm during important matches. While the Titans once again displayed their trademark resilience and tactical depth, the early playoff exit served as a reminder that experience and composure under pressure remains vital in the closing stages of the IPL.
3 foreign players GT can retain before IPL 2026
Heading into the 2026 auction, GT will aim to retain their strongest overseas core while addressing the shortcomings that dampened their title ambitions in 2025.
Rashid Khan – The face of Gujarat Titans bowling attack
- Role: leg spinner
- price in 2025: Rs 18 crore
- performance in 2025: 9 wickets with 2/25 in 15 matches, his best performance
Rashid Khan GT has been the backbone of the bowling unit since the inception of the franchise. Although 2025 was not his brightest season, his economy rate and match awareness remained invaluable. Rashid’s ability to control the middle overs, frustrate set batsmen and deliver breakthroughs makes him indispensable.
The Afghan leg spinner’s experience and leadership on the field has also helped the young players develop composure under pressure. GT’s management is expected to once again support Rashid, assuming an off-season does not diminish his long-term value. As the team reshapes itself for IPL 2026, Rashid will likely remain their key overseas retention.
Also read: Rajasthan Royals: RR may retain 3 foreign players ahead of IPL 2026 auction
Kagiso Rabada – speed, aggression, and redemption on the horizon
- Role: fast bowler
- price in 2025: Rs 10.75 crore
- performance in 2025: 2 wickets in 4 matches with 1/41 being his best
Kagiso RabadaThe 2025 season was marred by controversy, as he faced a one-month provisional suspension after testing positive for a recreational substance at the beginning of the year. Despite the failure, GT management values his experience and influence too much to let him go easily.
When fit and available, Rabada remains one of the most dangerous fast bowlers in T20 cricket. His ability to generate pace, bowl lethal yorkers and perform under pressure makes him a prized asset. The Titans are expected to retain Rabada, relying on his redemption arc and proven pedigree as a match-winner in high-risk situations.
Sherfane Rutherford – power-hitting revelation
- Role: batter
- price in 2025: INR 2.60 Crore
- Performance in 2025: 291 runs with the help of 22 fours and 18 sixes in 13 matches.
Sherfane Rutherford Gujarat emerged as one of the biggest positives for the Titans in the 2025 season. The West Indies left-hander played several impressive cameos which turned the tide in GT’s favour. His strike rate, fearless approach and ability to finish games make him a natural choice to retain.
Given his relatively low price and increasing form, retaining Rutherford offers excellent value for money. He has evolved from a supporting player to a genuine match-winner who is capable of handling the middle order or accelerating in the death overs. With the franchise looking for young, dynamic talent to balance its overseas mix, the retention of Rutherford seems almost certain.
Also read: Royal Challengers Bangalore: RCB may retain 3 foreign players before IPL 2026 auction
