The Gujarat Titans (GT) will soon face crucial decisions ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction, which is expected to be held from December 13 to 15, 2025, with the retention deadline around November 15, 2025. As teams rebuild their squads, GT might part ways with some players so that they can free up funds, make room for fresh signings and balance the squad. Here’s a look at a few players who could be released before the auction.
Why Gujarat Titans Might Make Changes
After a very mixed IPL 2025 season, the Gujarat Titans will be looking forward to strengthening certain areas, mainly their middle order and bowling attack. While the team has a solid core which is led by Shubman Gill, some players have struggled with fitness, form, or consistency. The management could release a few underperforming or high-cost names to bring in impactful replacements and rebuild for another strong campaign.
Possible Players GT Could Release
1. Ishant Sharma (India – Fast Bowler)
Veteran pacer Ishant Sharma was brought into the GT setup to add depth and experience to the bowling attack. However, at 37, his pace and fitness have naturally declined, and the Titans may now look toward younger Indian bowlers who can consistently deliver four overs of high-intensity pace. Releasing Ishant could open a spot for a developing pacer or a promising all-rounder while saving a portion of the purse for other signings.
2. Karim Janat (Afghanistan – All-rounder)
Afghanistan’s Karim Janat is a capable pace-bowling all-rounder but hasn’t made a strong impact in the IPL yet as he only played one match. GT already have several overseas all-rounders competing for limited spots, and Janat’s inconsistent performances could make him expendable. With the Titans likely to chase a high-profile foreign player in the upcoming auction, Janat could be released to free up an overseas slot.
3. Mahipal Lomror (India – All-rounder)
Domestic all-rounder Mahipal Lomror was seen as a reliable middle-order option and a handy part-time spinner. However, his opportunities have been limited, and with GT’s strong top and middle order, featuring Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan, and Jos Buttler, Lomror has struggled to find a consistent role. GT may release him to target a more aggressive finisher or a specialist spin-bowling all-rounder.
Also read: Ranji Trophy 2025-26: Complete List of Teams, Squads and Venues
4. Anuj Rawat (India – Wicketkeeper-Batter)
Wicketkeeper-batter Anuj Rawat joined GT as a backup option but hasn’t had many chances to play. With Buttler likely to continue as the first-choice wicketkeeper-batter, Rawat’s place in the squad may not be guaranteed. GT might decide to release him and look for a domestic wicketkeeper who offers more flexibility in the batting order.
5. Gerald Coetzee (South Africa – Fast Bowler)
South African pacer Gerald Coetzee is one of the most exciting young fast bowlers in world cricket, but his international commitments and potential injuries could make GT reconsider his place. Although Coetzee brings genuine pace and wicket-taking ability, the Titans might release him if they want to free a large portion of their salary cap to strengthen other areas, especially death bowling and finishing.
Other Players Under Review
A few other players, such as Dasun Shanaka, Kushagra, could also face evaluation depending on their form and team strategy. The final list will depend on GT’s approach to overseas balance and domestic player depth.
What GT Might Target at the Auction
- Add a reliable Indian pacer to back up Siraj and Prasidh.
- Bring in a power-hitter for the lower middle order.
- Sign a death-bowling specialist or an overseas all-rounder who can consistently finish games.
- Strengthen the bench with young domestic talents from the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Ranji Trophy.
Key Dates for Fans
- Retention deadline: November 15, 2025
- Mini-auction window: December 13-15, 2025 (expected)
- Official released list: Mid-November 2025 (after BCCI confirmation)
The Gujarat Titans, known for their smart auction strategies, will aim to refresh their lineup without disrupting team chemistry. While releasing players like Ishant Sharma, Karim Janat, Mahipal Lomror, Anuj Rawat, or Gerald Coetzee could be tough, these moves might help GT strengthen their core for another title push in IPL 2026.
Written by Kinjal Walantra
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