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Gujarat Titans [Source: AFP]
The Gujarat Titans (GT), champions of the 2022 Indian Premier League (IPL), are now facing an important phase as they prepare for the IPL 2026 mini-auction, which is likely to take place in the second week of December 2025. Before that, all franchises are required to submit their list of retained and released players by November 15, 2025.
While GT has been one of the most consistent teams in recent years, the management now faces tough decisions about players who have not lived up to expectations. Despite a strong overall campaign in IPL 2025, a few players underperformed significantly, which could lead to their release before the next season.
Rashid Khan
One of the biggest surprises could be the potential release of Rashid Khan. The Afghan all-rounder, who has been with the Titans since their debut season in 2022, endured one of the weakest seasons of his career in IPL 2025. Known for his sharp leg-spin and ability to take big wickets in the middle overs, Rashid struggled both with the ball and the bat.
| Criteria | Stats |
| Innings | 8 |
| Runs | 40 |
| Avg | 8 |
| S/R | 142.86 |
In the previous season, he managed to claim only 9 wickets in the 15 innings, averaging over 40 runs per wicket, a steep decline from his usual standards. His economy rate, once among the best in the league, also hovered around 8.75, which reflected his reduced effectiveness.
With the bat, his performance was equally disappointing, scoring only 40 runs in eight innings at an average of just 8.00.
Even in the Asia Cup 2025, Rashid’s poor form continued as he could manage only 47 runs and three wickets in three matches. Considering his once-dominant status as a game-changer, this dip has been alarming. Given his high salary, GT might look for a fresher option in the spin department or invest in a young Indian player ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction.
Kagiso Rabada
Another major concern for GT is South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada. Bought for a hefty ₹10.75 crore in the 2025 auction, Rabada was expected to be the spearhead of the Titans’ pace attack.
| Criteria | Stats |
| Innings | 4 |
| Wickets | 4 |
| Avg | 81 |
| E/R | 11.57 |
[Kagiso Rabada's bowling stats in IPL 2025]
However, his season was marred by controversies and inconsistent performances. After missing several matches due to a doping investigation, Rabada featured in only four games, taking two wickets at an average of 81.00 and an economy rate of 11.57, numbers far below his international standards.
His struggles extended to international stage as well, where he managed just one wicket in two innings during the England T20I series. Despite the team’s overall strong bowling unit, led by Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna, Rabada’s failure to deliver under pressure made him a weak link.
With such poor returns and a high price tag eating into the team’s purse, GT may decide to part ways with him and pursue a more reliable overseas pacer for the next season.
Ishant Sharma
Indian pacer Ishant Sharma also appears to be nearing the end of his IPL journey. At 37, age and fitness have clearly started to affect his pace and consistency. In IPL 2025, Ishant played seven matches, picking up only four wickets at an average of 51.25 and an economy rate of 11.18.
| Criteria | Stats |
| Innings | 7 |
| Wickets | 4 |
| Avg | 51.25 |
| E/R | 11.18 |
[Ishant Sharma's bowling stats in IPL 2025]
These figures showed his struggle to contain runs during the power play and death overs. Once a dependable new-ball bowler, Ishant now finds it hard to maintain rhythm against aggressive modern-day batters. With GT looking to build a future-ready bowling lineup, retaining a senior player with declining returns may not be practical.
