As the Indian Premier League (IPL) prepares for its player selection event in 2026, teams are anticipated to make some challenging choices regarding player retention. For the Gujarat Titans (GT), the selection process will center on keeping a key group of game-changing players who can lead the franchise back to its previous success. After securing the IPL championship in their first season in 2022 and placing second in 2023, the Titans have established a strong reputation built on consistency and strategic player acquisition.
GT campaign in IPL 2025: A season of promise that ended in heartbreak
During the IPL 2025 season, the Titans performed admirably during the preliminary matches, ending up in fourth position on the leaderboard with nine wins. Their steadiness during the first part of the competition demonstrated the team’s resilience and versatility, with various players rising to the occasion during pivotal times. However, their journey ended disappointingly in the Eliminator match against Mumbai Indians, led by their former team leader Hardik Pandya.
Despite a promising start and a well-rounded batting lineup, GT struggled when it mattered most. The inability to transform strong foundations into game-winning efforts during the elimination stage proved costly. Furthermore, concerns regarding the condition and availability of certain high-value players impacted the team’s momentum during crucial games. While the Titans once again showcased their characteristic perseverance and tactical skill, the early elimination from the playoffs served as a reminder that experience and composure under duress remain crucial in the IPL’s final phases.
3 overseas players GT can retain ahead of IPL 2026
As they prepare for the 2026 auction, GT will aim to keep their strongest international core while addressing the deficiencies that hampered their championship aspirations in 2025.
Rashid Khan – The face of Gujarat Titans’ bowling attack
- Role: Leg-spinner
- Price in 2025: INR 18 crore
- Performance in 2025: 9 wickets in 15 matches with 2/25 as his best
Rashid Khan has been the cornerstone of GT’s bowling attack from the franchise’s beginning. Despite the fact that 2025 was not his most successful season, his economy rate and understanding of the game were still extremely valuable. Rashid’s ability to control the middle overs, frustrate established batters, and provide breakthroughs makes him vital.
The Afghan leg-spinner’s knowledge and leadership on the field have also assisted younger players in developing composure under pressure. GT’s management is predicted to support Rashid once more, believing that one subpar season does not diminish his long-term worth. As the team reorganizes for IPL 2026, Rashid will most likely remain their top foreign retention.
Kagiso Rabada – Speed, aggression, and redemption on the horizon
- Role: Fast bowler
- Price in 2025: INR 10.75 crore
- Performance in 2025: 2 wickets in 4 matches with 1/41 as his best
Kagiso Rabada’s 2025 season was marred by controversy, as he was given a one-month temporary suspension after testing positive for a prohibited substance earlier in the year. Despite this setback, GT’s management values his experience and possible impact too highly to simply let him go.
When healthy and available, Rabada is still one of the most feared fast bowlers in T20 cricket. His ability to create pace, deliver deadly yorkers, and perform under pressure makes him a valuable asset. The Titans are likely to keep Rabada, relying on his comeback story and demonstrated record as a game-changer in high-stakes circumstances.
Sherfane Rutherford – The power-hitting revelation
- Role: Batter
- Price in 2025: INR 2.60 crore
- Performance in 2025: 291 runs in 13 games with 22 fours and 18 sixes
Sherfane Rutherford became one of the most encouraging aspects for Gujarat Titans during the 2025 season. The West Indian left-handed batter played a number of significant cameos that swung the momentum in GT’s favor. His strike rate, fearless attitude, and ability to finish games make him a natural choice for retention.
Given his comparatively low price and rising form, keeping Rutherford provides excellent value for money. He has developed from a supporting player into a genuine game-winner capable of anchoring the middle order or accelerating at the end of the innings. With the franchise looking for young, energetic talent to balance its international mix, Rutherford’s retention appears almost certain.
