The Gujarat Titans, under the leadership of Shubman Gill, are expected to adopt a conservative approach during the upcoming Indian Premier League auction scheduled for next month in Abu Dhabi. Team management has decided to maintain their core squad for IPL 2026, making them one of the least active franchises in the bidding war.
Strategic Decision: Stability Over Changes
Captain Shubman Gill and head coach Ashish Nehra have reached a consensus that retaining their established players will serve the team's long-term interests better than making significant acquisitions. This strategic move indicates their confidence in the current squad's capabilities and their vision for sustained performance across seasons.
The most significant development within the camp involves all-rounder Washington Sundar, who is set to receive an expanded role starting next season. The team management has decided to regularly position him at the crucial No. 4 batting spot, a move that could potentially solve their middle-order concerns.
Washington Sundar's Rising Stock
The 26-year-old all-rounder, acquired by GT for Rs 3.2 crore, had limited opportunities last season, featuring in only six matches. His growth in the past three IPL seasons has been hampered by the 'Impact Player' rule, which restricted his appearances to just nine games for Sunrisers Hyderabad across IPL 2023 and 2024.
However, Sundar's recent performances have significantly boosted his value. His exceptional display during the white-ball series in Australia, where he participated in all ODIs and delivered crucial breakthroughs, caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts. Particularly impressive was his T20I batting in the third match at Hobart, where the southpaw smashed an unbeaten 49 off just 23 balls, surprising many with his explosive capabilities.
The Indian team management has already identified him as one of the few players considered an automatic selection across all three formats, recognizing his unique ability to secure a place purely based on either his batting or bowling skills.
GT's Firm Belief in Sundar's Potential
Gujarat Titans demonstrated their faith in Washington Sundar by promptly declining a trade request from Chennai Super Kings that included an all-cash offer. This decision underscores their commitment to integrating him as a central figure in their team composition.
With the top three batting positions firmly occupied by Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan, and Jos Buttler, Sundar's promotion to No. 4 appears to be a strategic masterstroke that could balance the batting lineup effectively.
Limited Auction Activity Planned
Despite their quiet auction approach, GT will seek specific reinforcements. Following Sherfane Rutherford's trade, the franchise will look for middle-order alternatives and a quick bowler during the mini-auction. While they plan to retain their frontline seamers, adding another seamer—either Indian or overseas—remains on their wishlist.
The releases will primarily feature uncapped Indian players, making room for strategic acquisitions. Additionally, Glenn Phillips continues to be part of their plans, with the team identifying a specific role for the New Zealand player. Phillips, signed for Rs 2 crore, was ruled out of the previous season due to a groin injury sustained while substitute fielding against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 6, 2025.
This calculated approach reflects GT's confidence in their existing squad and their strategic vision of building a consistent, performance-driven team for the upcoming IPL season.
