IPL 2026: 3 GT Players Who Could Be Traded Before the IPL Auction

The Gujarat Titans (GT) are gearing up for the IPL 2026 auction after a respectable season in 2025, finishing in third place with a record of nine wins and five loses as values, confirming that they are among the more competitive teams in the league. The franchise's top-order batters and bowlers put forth consistent performances during the season, but the middle order, along with some of the bowlers, let them down in the Eliminator against Mumbai Indians, which cost them a clear path to the next round.

GT management is possibly re-evaluating their options with the mini-auction approaching and the date of retention player's list nearing. A couple of lower performing players could be moved on, given an emphasis on bringing in new players. Managed by captain Shubman Gill, they may focus on solidifying their roster, returning to the dominant form they displayed in their inaugural title winning season.

1. Ishant Sharma

Veteran Indian fast bowler Ishant Sharma might be released by the Gujarat team. The 37-year-old’s age and fitness seem to be affecting his speed and performance. In IPL 2025, he played seven matches, taking only four wickets with an average of 51.25 and an economy rate of 11.18. Once a reliable new-ball bowler, Ishant has found it tough to adapt to the batting approach of modern-day players. GT might opt to change their bowling attack with younger and newer pacers who can have a long-term impact.

2. Rashid Khan

The Titans could trade one of their biggest stars, premier spinner, Rashid Khan. The Afghan cricketer has played for the Titans since 2022, and had a tough IPL 2025 season. He took just 9 wickets, at an average of over 40 and an economy of 8.75 in 15 matches. More importantly, he was a non-factor with the bat, only contributing 40 runs in 8 innings at an average of 8.00 and a strike rate of 142.86.

His poor form extended during the 2025 Asia Cup, as he claimed only three wickets and scored 47 runs in three matches as Afghanistan crashed out early. While Rashid was retained for INR 18 crore, the team could look to trade him or release him to free up some funds.

3. Rahul Tewatia

The all-rounder Rahul Tewatia might be released by the Gujarat Titans in advance of the IPL 2026 season. As a player who is regarded for his finishing skills, Tewatia had a terrible IPL 2025, scoring only 99 runs in 12 innings. He was mostly restricted to the last overs of his innings to bat and did not have the time to showcase his batting skills while he batted.

GT had retained him for ₹4 crore, but his performance didn’t justify the price. GT’s top-order dominance last season led to him getting limited chances, while his bowling wasn’t utilized effectively either. With the franchise looking to strengthen its middle order and add more bowling depth, Tewatia could be traded or released ahead of the 2026 auction.

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