Published on: Mar 23, 2026 4:13 pm IST|Updated on: Mar 23, 2026 4:13 pm IST
The Gujarat Titans, champions in their debut season, i.e., 2022, may not look like the strongest team on paper, but they somehow manage to stun the opposition and fans almost every IPL season. After a letdown in 2024, the Titans managed to make it to the playoffs of IPL 2025 but unfortunately went down against the 5-time champions, Mumbai Indians, in the Eliminator.
In the IPL 2026 auction, Gujarat Titans retained most of their core and added depth in key areas. Their strategy was clear—strengthen the pace department and rely on the same batters who did their task in the last season. Shubman Gill’s men have built a reputation for resilience and tactical brilliance, but the franchise is still hungry to add another trophy to their cabinet. With a squad featuring world‑class internationals and promising Indian talents, GT will be eyeing nothing less than glory this season.
Last Season’s Finish: Exit in the Eliminator after finishing 3rd in the group stage
Skipper Shubman Gill, along with Sai Sudharsan, will carry on opening the innings for the Gujarat Titans as they did in the last season. The left-right duo was imperial in the last season to help the team secure a playoff berth. A key strength of their partnership last season was that one of them always tried to bat deep, laying a solid platform for the rest of the batters to play freely. Together, they form a dynamic opening pair capable of providing both stability and aggression in the powerplay.
Jos Buttler, the English wicketkeeper‑batter, adds explosive firepower at number three. Known for his ability to dominate bowlers from ball one, Buttler’s presence ensures GT can accelerate in the middle overs. His experience in high‑pressure situations makes him a match‑winner who can single‑handedly change games.
All-rounder Washington Sundar remains a weak link in GT’s batting lineup. Washi batted at no. 4 last season with little to no impact and is likely to bat at no 4 yet again. Another concerning aspect of Washington Sundar’s role last season was that he bowled very little and was primarily used as a specialist batter. With other all‑rounders available in the squad, GT should reconsider their decision to bat Sundar at No. 4.
Shahrukh Khan, the hard‑hitting Indian batter, will be entrusted with the role of a middle‑order enforcer at no 5. His ability to clear boundaries and finish innings strongly has been well-documented. GT will rely on Shahrukh to provide momentum and ensure the team doesn’t lose steam in the middle overs.
Rahul Tewatia has become synonymous with clutch performances. His knack for hitting sixes under pressure and finishing games makes him one of the most dangerous lower‑order batters in the IPL. Tewatia’s role will be to provide the late surge and ensure GT can chase or set daunting totals.
Kagiso Rabada, the South African speedster, brings pace, bounce, and wicket‑taking ability. His experience in global T20 leagues and knack for striking in the powerplay make him a lethal weapon. Rabada’s presence ensures GT have a strike bowler who can dismantle the top orders. Rabada would be looking to deliver with intensity and authority this season after his last season was marred due to indifferent reasons.
Jason Holder, the experienced West Indian all‑rounder, was one of the surprise picks in the IPL 2026 auctions by the Titans. Holder had a terrific run in the recently concluded T20 World Cup 2026 for the West Indies with both bat and ball. He has the knack of providing breakthroughs with both the new and old balls, making him a valuable asset for the Titans.
Mohammed Siraj, the experienced pacer, adds aggression and accuracy. With the new ball, Siraj will play a vital role for the Titans. Siraj’s energy and consistency will be crucial in ensuring GT’s pace attack remains one of the strongest in the league.
Rashid Khan had a nightmarish IPL season in 2026. However, he still remains the heartbeat of Gujarat Titans’ bowling attack. His world‑class leg spin, coupled with his ability to bowl in any phase of the game, makes him a genuine match‑winner. Rashid’s consistency and wicket‑taking ability ensure GT always has control in the middle overs.
Ravisrinivasan Sai Kishore, the left‑arm spinner, adds variety to the spin department. His accuracy and ability to bowl both in powerplay and spells make him a perfect partner to Rashid. Together, they form a spin duo capable of strangling opposition batters and turning matches in GT’s favor.
You couldn’t ask for a better impact substitute than last season’s Purple Cap holder Prasidh Krishna. His height and ability to bowl short stuff even on the slowest of surfaces make him an x-factor in this lineup. He will be a potent weapon against the opposition and will look to translate the same sort of form from the last season.
Tags: IPL 2026