IPL 2024 | Gujarat Titans - Pre-Auction Analysis

image-lpuz3znzGujarat Titans [iplt20.com]

In the run-up to the IPL 2024 auction, a comprehensive analysis of the Gujarat Titans is imperative, given their commendable performance as runners-up in the IPL 2023. Despite their recent entry into the league two years ago, the Titans swiftly climbed the ranks, clinching their debut season and narrowly missing out on a consecutive victory in 2023.

The departure of captain Hardik Pandya, traded back to the Mumbai Indians, leaves a notable void in the team. Shubman Gill steps into the leadership role, facing the formidable challenge of guiding a champion team at a tender age. As anticipation builds for the forthcoming IPL season, teams are strategically shaping their rosters. The Gujarat Titans, a former champion, have unveiled their list of retained and released players in preparation for the IPL 2024 Auction.


Gujarat Titans - IPL 2024 Retained Players

David Miller, Shubman Gill (C), Matthew Wade, Wriddhiman Saha, Kane Williamson, Abhinav Manohar, B. Sai Sudharsan, Darshan Nalkande, Vijay Shankar, Jayant Yadav, Rahul Tewatia, Mohammed Shami, Noor Ahmad, Sai Kishore, Rashid Khan, Joshua Little, Mohit Sharma.

Purse Remaining: ₹38.15 Crore

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IPL 2024 - GT Squad Analysis

Let's take a look at GT's strengths and weaknesses:

Strength of GT for IPL 2024:

Strong Bowling Attack: GT's bowling arsenal stands out as one of the strongest in the tournament. Led by the spin maestro Rashid Khan and pace stalwart Mohammed Shami, the Titans possess a well-rounded and versatile attack. Rashid Khan's ability to weave magic with the ball and Shami's experience in varying conditions provide the team with strategic flexibility.

Reliable Finishers: The Titans' imposing chasing record can be attributed to reliable finishers like David Miller and Rahul Tewatia, who have consistently delivered in the death overs. The presence of Rashid Khan adds further depth to their batting arsenal.

Weakness of GT for IPL 2024:

Pace Bowling: While Mohammed Shami stands as the spearhead of GT's pace attack, there is a noticeable gap in terms of additional depth in the fast-bowling department. In a tournament where conditions can vary significantly, having a more comprehensive pace battery would provide the team with the adaptability needed to tackle different challenges.

Inexperienced Captain: Shubman Gill, though a promising talent, lacks significant captaincy experience. The success of the team in IPL 2024 hinges on how well Gill navigates the challenges both on and off the field.

Lack of Explosiveness in Batting Order: The absence of Hardik Pandya leaves a void in the explosive T20 batting department for the Gujarat Titans. Pandya's ability to accelerate the run rate and provide fireworks in the middle order will be sorely missed. The current batting lineup lacks a modern-day T20 specialist who can consistently unleash powerful strokes and maintain a high strike rate, especially during powerplays.

Areas to fill for GT in IPL 2024 Auction:

Ahead of the IPL 2024 Auction, the Gujarat Titans are strategising to bolster key areas in their squad for a competitive season.

Firstly, the team is eyeing a versatile all-rounder to enhance the overall balance, contributing significantly with both bat and ball. This addition is crucial for diversifying the team's capabilities and ensuring adaptability in various match situations.

Another priority for the Gujarat Titans is securing a quality overseas pacer to strengthen their pace department. This move aims to provide depth and variation to the team's bowling attack, ensuring a formidable and well-rounded lineup that can effectively challenge opponents.

In addition, the Titans are keen on acquiring an Indian pacer to further fortify their fast-bowling resources. This strategic decision not only adds depth to the squad but also facilitates the infusion of local talent, contributing to a more diverse and competitive team.

Possible Target Players for GT in IPL 2024 Auction:

Among the potential targets in the auction, Australian all-rounder Pat Cummins emerges as a strong candidate, capable of providing stability to the squad with his dual expertise in batting and bowling.

Adding diversity to the team's skill set, Afghan all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai stands out as an intriguing option. His dynamic abilities could well complement the team's requirements, offering a versatile edge to the squad.

On the local front, emerging Indian all-rounder Shahrukh Khan is a player to watch. His prowess in the middle order could deepen the team's batting lineup, providing valuable contributions with both bat and ball.

To further strengthen their squad, the Gujarat Titans must address wicketkeeping concerns. It is essential to have a backup wicketkeeper, preferably Indian. Sarfaraz Khan could be a suitable option to support Wriddhiman Saha.

In addition, the team should target explosive batters to inject vitality into the batting order. Potential candidates include Shashank Singh and Luvnith Sisodia.