Gujarat Titans (GT) put together a strong run during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, qualifying for their third summit clash before ultimately falling short against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Although the roster led by Shubman Gill delivered solid displays all year, their journey brought to light several shortcomings requiring work ahead of the upcoming tournament.
The squad’s central batting lineup continues to be a primary area of weakness, as GT lacks steady scoring and explosive hits in those intermediate positions. The upcoming mini-auction presents team officials with an ideal chance to resolve these vulnerabilities by recruiting cricketers who can deliver enhanced quality to the lineup.
In order to accommodate new signings, the Gujarat outfit might decide to offload certain current squad members. Below are three cricketers GT may opt to discharge prior to the IPL 2027 mini-auction.
3 cricketers GT could part ways with prior to the IPL 2027 mini-auction
1. Shahrukh Khan (₹4 Crore)
Reason: Erratic displays and minimal influence within the central order
Shahrukh Khan might be among the initial cricketers Gujarat Titans evaluate for release before the next cycle. The team kept the Tamil Nadu batsman ahead of IPL 2026, anticipating that his big-hitting capabilities would fortify their middle overs. Nonetheless, he struggled to produce regular output and gradually surrendered his place in the preferred starting line-up.
GT have demonstrated significant confidence in Shahrukh over recent years, yet his on-field results have rarely rewarded that trust. His lack of steadiness has extended beyond the IPL as well, with his domestic scores failing to present a compelling argument for a fixed spot in the side. At present, Gujarat could seek a younger batsman who offers superior reliability and long-term prospects.
Potential plan: Release purse money to secure a dependable middle-order batsman
Cutting ties with Shahrukh would unfreeze ₹4 crore, which Gujarat could reinvest to bolster their middle order during the mini-auction. The organization might target a domestic batter skilled at handling high-pressure scenarios to bring stability between the top order and the late-overs hitters. This move would also allow the hierarchy to cultivate a younger talent capable of becoming a main fixture in the XI.
2. Jayant Yadav
Reason: Restricted utility and redundancy within the setup
Jayant Yadav is another name GT might contemplate offloading prior to IPL 2027. The seasoned all-rounder has found it challenging to secure a prominent spot in the team’s tactical balance, contributing sparingly with both bat and ball. While he brings valuable experience and can be handy on turning tracks, his overall contribution to the active roster remains minimal.
Gujarat currently possess Washington Sundar as their primary off-spinning all-rounder to maintain control during the middle overs. This makes carrying an additional player of a similar profile unnecessary, especially when other department needs take precedence. GT could reallocate this squad slot to nurture a younger cricketer who has room to evolve and aid the team over multiple seasons.
Potential plan: Acquire a promising domestic all-rounder
Bidding farewell to Jayant would permit Gujarat to research up-and-coming Indian all-rounders effective with both disciplines. The franchise could look for an individual possessing higher batting upside or a distinct bowling style to complement Sundar. Such a replacement would afford greater tactical adaptability while aiding GT in building for the future.
3. Ishant Sharma
Reason: Veteran fast bowler facing stiff competition in the pace unit
Ishant Sharma stands out as another potential release candidate as Gujarat look to revamp their fast-bowling resources. The 37-year-old has rendered helpful spells on occasion, but his peak years are behind him. As the management aims to craft a pace attack capable of consistently thriving across diverse pitches, maintaining an aging seamer may not fit their strategic vision.
GT already feature a strong assembly of quicks, alongside head coach Ashish Nehra who brings vast expertise to mentor the fast-bowling department. Consequently, Ishant’s game time could shrink further, particularly if junior fast bowlers keep developing. The setup might prefer extending game time to a fresh bowling prospect rather than retaining a veteran with limited future upside.
Potential plan: Open up space for an emerging fast bowler
Releasing Ishant would allow Gujarat to recruit another youthful Indian fast bowler at the mini-auction. The decision-makers could zero in on a seamer offering solid speed, control, and versatility across different stages of a T20 match. With Nehra available to groom young quicks, GT can prioritize developing a fresh bowling option capable of becoming a staple in their attack for coming seasons.
