5 Players Gujarat Titans (GT) Can Target In The IPL 2025 Mega Auction

The Gujarat Titans (GT), winners of the IPL title in their debut season in 2022, have begun reshaping their squad ahead of the 2025 edition. After a disappointing bottom-three finish in IPL 2024, the franchise has retained a core group of five players, spending INR 51 crore, while releasing several big names to refresh their roster. With INR 69 crore left in their auction purse and one Right to Match (RTM) card, GT is primed for a mega auction that could redefine their fortunes.

Core Retentions: Building Around a Balanced Foundation

Among the retained players, Rashid Khan remains the franchise’s cornerstone. With a retention cost of INR 18 crore, the Afghan leg-spinner continues to be GT’s most valuable asset. Newly appointed captain Shubman Gill, who has been pivotal to their batting successes, was retained for INR 16.5 crore. Gill’s slight pay cut reflects the franchise’s prioritization of Rashid’s game-changing abilities.

Promising batter Sai Sudharsan, retained for INR 8.5 crore, has cemented his place in the squad after transitioning to a capped player. Meanwhile, versatile all-rounders Rahul Tewatia and Shahrukh Khan were retained for INR 4 crore each, offering GT depth and explosive finishing power in the lower order. This blend of seasoned performers and rising talent highlights GT’s commitment to a balanced squad.

Big Departures: A Shift in Strategy

While GT’s retentions signal stability, their decision to release key players such as Mohammed Shami and David Miller points to a shift in focus. Shami, the backbone of GT’s pace attack during their title-winning run, and Miller, a reliable middle-order presence, are significant omissions. The franchise’s move to part ways with these veterans underscores their intent to rejuvenate the squad with younger, dynamic players.

Other releases include Wriddhiman Saha, whose consistent contributions at the top order were invaluable but whose age pushed GT to seek a long-term replacement. These decisions reflect GT’s forward-looking approach as they aim to rebuild a competitive side under Gill’s leadership.

IPL 2025 Auction: Key Priorities for the Titans

The mega auction presents GT with a golden opportunity to address gaps in their squad. Strengthening their bowling lineup, particularly in the absence of Shami, is a top priority. The franchise is also keen to bolster their middle order following Miller’s departure.

With INR 69 crore at their disposal, GT has the resources to aggressively pursue marquee players while also investing in emerging talents. The use of the RTM card will be crucial, particularly if they aim to bring back one of their released stars.

5 Players Gujarat Titans Can Target

Mohammed Shami:
Despite releasing Shami, GT could use their RTM card to bring him back. His experience and leadership in the bowling unit are irreplaceable, and his proven ability to deliver in crunch moments makes him an invaluable asset. Shami’s return could stabilize GT’s pace attack, offering a blend of control and aggression.
Ishan Kishan:
As Wriddhiman Saha nears the twilight of his career, Ishan Kishan emerges as an ideal replacement. Kishan’s explosive batting and wicketkeeping skills complement Gill’s style, creating a dynamic top-order partnership. His ability to dominate powerplay overs makes him a natural fit for GT’s aggressive approach.
Mitchell Starc:
GT’s struggles with death bowling in IPL 2024 could be addressed by acquiring Mitchell Starc. Known for his lethal yorkers and ability to swing the new ball, Starc’s inclusion would elevate GT’s pace attack. If Starc is unavailable, alternatives like Trent Boult or Kagiso Rabada could fill the void.
Liam Livingstone:
GT’s middle-order woes could be solved with the addition of Liam Livingstone. A destructive batter with the ability to clear boundaries effortlessly, Livingstone’s versatility with both bat and ball makes him a valuable asset. His experience in pressure situations adds stability to GT’s relatively young squad.
Rasikh Salam:
Emerging pacer Rasikh Salam could be a long-term investment for GT. Salam’s performance in the Emerging Asia Cup 2024, where he was India’s leading wicket-taker, showcases his potential. Grooming him alongside experienced bowlers would prepare him to lead GT’s attack in the future.

Backing Shubman Gill: The Captaincy Blueprint

The appointment of Shubman Gill as captain signals GT’s faith in his leadership and batting prowess. The franchise’s retention strategy and auction plans revolve around creating a team that complements Gill’s style. Surrounding him with seasoned campaigners like Rashid Khan while nurturing young talent like Sai Sudharsan reflects a balanced approach to team-building.

Gill’s ability to lead by example with the bat will be critical in GT’s quest to return to their winning ways. The franchise’s auction strategy aims to provide him with the tools to succeed, both as a leader and a player.

The Road Ahead: GT’s Quest for Redemption

Gujarat Titans’ retention strategy and auction preparation indicate a franchise determined to reclaim their place among the IPL elite. After a lackluster 2024 season, GT’s focus on youth, dynamic players, and strategic reinforcements sets the stage for a strong comeback.

The IPL 2025 auction will be pivotal in shaping their fortunes, with their ability to secure key targets likely determining their campaign’s success. With a clear vision and robust resources, the Gujarat Titans are ready to roar back into contention, embodying the resilience and ambition that define IPL’s most successful teams.

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