Gujarat Titans (GT) IPL approached 2026 retention with a focus on retaining its championship-winning team from 2023 while making tactical adjustments to maintain competitiveness. Their retention decisions reflect a balance of locking in key performers while allowing flexibility for auction enhancements.
Gujarat Titans’ core retention to strengthen the team
GT retained captain Shubman Gillall-rounders Rahul Tewatia and Washington Sundar, and key batsmen like Jos Buttler and Sai Sudarshan. This core group forms the cornerstone of GT’s strategy by combining explosive batting with world-class bowling. The presence of these players ensures continuity of their title-winning blueprint and leadership stability.
GT released some squad members seen as peripheral to its immediate plans to free up space for the auction. The notable release of players such as Gerald Coetzee created space to acquire emerging Indian talent, with the aim of addressing specific tactical needs such as middle-order batting depth and fast bowling variety. This reflects a measured approach to keeping the team fresh without eliminating core strengths.
GT’s strategy for IPL 2026 auction
Gujarat Titans is entering the IPL 2026 auction with a modest purse and a strategic number of open slots. This auction flexibility allows GT to target a select number of international players and promising domestic talent, focusing on a balanced and adaptable lineup ready for diverse IPL conditions.
GT’s retention strategy demonstrates the franchise’s confidence in its founding players, supported by targeted investment of talent through the auction. Maintaining a mix of youth and experience, GT aims to remain a strong contender, with the team under the leadership of Shubman Gill.
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Gujarat Titans: Retention, Release, Trade and Purse
Released players: Dasun Shanaka, Mahipal Lomror, Karim Janat, Gerald Coetzee, Kulwant Khejroliya, Sherfane Rutherford (traded to MI)
Players retained: Anuj Rawat, Glenn Phillips, Gurnoor Brar, Ishant Sharma, Jayant Yadav, Jos Buttler, Kagiso RabadaKumar Kushagra, Manav Suthar, Mohammad Siraj, Arshad Khan, Nishant Sindhu, Prasidh Krishna, Sai Kishore, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Sai Sudarshan, Shahrukh Khan, Shubman Gill, Washington Sundar.
Purse Balance: Rs 12.90 crore
Remaining slots: 5 (4 foreigners)
