5 Players Gujarat Titans May Release Before IPL 2026 Mini Auction

After a mixed IPL 2025 campaign that saw them finish fourth, the Gujarat Titans (GT) will enter the IPL 2026 mini auction with important decisions to make. The franchise, led by Shubman Gill, started its IPL journey with a bang; winning the title in 2022 and reaching the final again in 2023. However, the last two seasons have seen a dip in dominance, prompting the team management to rethink its combination.

As part of the Gujarat Titans squad changes IPL 2026, the franchise might consider releasing a few underperforming players to balance their budget and bring in fresh faces. With the IPL 2026 mini auction Gujarat Titans possible releases becoming a hot topic among fans, here’s a detailed look at 5 players Gujarat Titans may release before IPL 2026 mini auction.

5. Karim Janat

Afghanistan all-rounder Karim Janat had a forgettable stint with GT in 2025. Playing just one match, he failed to make an impression either with bat or ball. His expensive spells and lack of control made him an unlikely candidate for retention.

Moreover, his inconsistent international form further weakens his case. GT might replace him with a more reliable pace-bowling all-rounder as part of their Gujarat Titans team reshuffle before IPL 2026. The management is expected to keep a close eye on emerging overseas talents who can bring stability and versatility to the lineup.

Karim Janat Performance in IPL 2025

4. Kagiso Rabada

South African pacer Kagiso Rabada could also find himself among the GT underperforming players 2025 season. He played only four matches, picking up just two wickets, and had to leave mid-season due to a drug abuse case that forced his return to South Africa.

Although Rabada’s past IPL record is impressive, his limited availability and below-par performance might influence GT’s decision. With bowlers like Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna delivering consistent spells, the Titans may choose to release Rabada to explore new overseas bowling options in the upcoming IPL 2026 mini auction.

Kagiso Rabada Performance in IPL 2025

3. Gerald Coetzee

Another South African pacer, Gerald Coetzee, had a tough IPL 2025 season. He played four matches and took just two wickets, failing to make the kind of impact expected from him. Despite his raw pace and potential, Coetzee’s inconsistent form across various leagues and his history of injuries make him a risky retention.

The Titans may consider replacing him with a more seasoned overseas fast bowler to bring balance and depth to the attack; a crucial part of their GT team strategy for IPL 2026 mini auction.

Gerald Coetzee Performance in IPL 2025

2. Ishant Sharma

Veteran pacer Ishant Sharma, who has been a part of the IPL since its early years, may also be released before IPL 2026. The 36-year-old featured in seven matches for GT in 2025, picking up just four wickets.

While his experience is invaluable, age and fitness concerns have affected his ability to maintain pace and consistency throughout the tournament. The Titans might look to infuse youth into their bowling attack, making Ishant a potential name on the GT released players list 2026.

Ishant Sharma Performance in IPL 2025

1. Rahul Tewatia

All-rounder Rahul Tewatia could be among the GT players to be released before IPL 2026. Although known for his finishing skills, Tewatia struggled to make a mark in IPL 2025, scoring just 99 runs in 12 innings. He often batted in the death overs, leaving him little time to build momentum.

Retained for ₹4 crore in the 2025 mega auction, his contribution was modest compared to his price tag. Moreover, he didn’t bowl much during the season, which diminished his value as an all-rounder. Given GT’s reliance on their top order, Tewatia may not feature in the Gujarat Titans retention list 2026.

Rahul Tewatia Performance in IPL 2025

Gujarat Titans Squad Changes 2026: What Fans Can Expect?

Fans can expect Gujarat Titans future plans to revolve around maintaining a strong core while restructuring their supporting lineup. The probable releases; Rahul Tewatia, Kagiso Rabada, Karim Janat, Ishant Sharma, and Gerald Coetzee; reflect a calculated move toward building a more dynamic and balanced squad.

With the right picks at the IPL 2026 mini auction, GT could re-establish themselves as one of the strongest teams in the competition and aim for their second championship title.

• Strategic releases could help free up budget space for stronger overseas options.
• Focus on balance: The team will likely prioritize consistent all-rounders and young domestic pacers.
• Rebuild approach: GT will aim to recapture their early IPL dominance by blending experience with emerging talent.

The IPL 2026 mini auction will be crucial for Gujarat Titans as they look to fine-tune their lineup and return to title contention.

The Gujarat Titans team news 2026 suggests a strategic rebuild phase. GT are expected to retain key performers such as Shubman Gill and Rashid Khan, while parting ways with players who didn’t contribute significantly during IPL 2025.

FAQs on Gujarat Titans Player Release 2026

1. Which players Gujarat Titans may release before IPL 2026 mini auction?
   Gujarat Titans might part ways with underperforming players from the 2025 season, including Rahul Tewatia, Kagiso Rabada, Karim Janat, Ishant Sharma, and Gerald Coetzee.
2. What changes are expected in Gujarat Titans squad for IPL 2026?
   GT could make tactical changes by targeting younger, consistent all-rounders and pacers to build a balanced squad for IPL 2026.
3. Who are the likely released players from Gujarat Titans in IPL 2026?
   The likely released players include Tewatia, Rabada, Janat, Ishant, and Coetzee; all of whom struggled to meet expectations in IPL 2025.
4. How will the IPL 2026 mini auction impact Gujarat Titans?
   It will allow GT to enhance their squad depth, strengthen their bowling lineup, and fine-tune team balance ahead of IPL 2026.
5. Will Gujarat Titans retain their core players for IPL 2026?
   Yes, GT are expected to retain core performers like Shubman Gill and Rashid Khan while reassessing the contracts of fringe players.
6. What is Gujarat Titans’ retention and release strategy for IPL 2026?
   The Titans will retain consistent match-winners and release underperformers to free up funds for new signings in the IPL 2026 mini auction.

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