Following the IPL 2026 auction held this week, the Gujarat Titans (GT) ownership has expressed confidence in their acquisitions and overall team composition. Despite entering the auction with the third-lowest purse of INR 12.90 crore, the franchise believes they have successfully addressed key areas to enhance their already strong core.
After a playoff finish in the 2025 season, where they stumbled in the Eliminator against Mumbai Indians, GT identified specific areas needing reinforcement. The team retained 20 players from the previous season, signaling faith in the nucleus that has delivered consistent results since their debut in 2022, when they won the IPL title. Key retained players include Shubman Gill, who will be leading the team, Rashid Khan, Sai Sudharsan, and seasoned players like Jos Buttler, Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj, Washington Sundar, and Rahul Tewatia. The retention strategy focused on backing proven performers and maintaining balance across departments.
With a limited purse and only five slots to fill, GT focused on acquiring specialists who could immediately integrate into the first XI. According to sources within the franchise, the goal was to add tactical value by securing players who could fulfill specific roles. The Titans were looking to bolster their middle-order batting and add depth to their pace attack.
The IPL 2026 auction saw GT successfully acquire five players. West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder was their most expensive purchase, being bought for INR 7 crore. Holder brings a wealth of experience with 46 IPL games and 53 wickets to his name, along with his T20 power-hitting abilities. England's hard-hitting wicket-keeper Tom Banton was added for INR 2 crore. The franchise also invested in uncapped talent, securing the services of Ashok Sharma, a leading wicket-taker in the SMAT 2025-26, for INR 90 lakhs. Additionally, they signed uncapped Indian bowler Prithvi Raj Yarra at his base price of INR 30 lakh and English pacer Luke Wood for INR 75 lakh.
While GT missed out on their initial target, Venkatesh Iyer, due to budget constraints, they are pleased with the players they ultimately secured. By the end of the auction, GT had spent INR 10.95 crore, completing their 25-member squad.
"We are extremely happy with how the auction played out," stated a GT spokesperson. "We came in with a clear strategy to target specific players who could add balance and firepower to our squad. Jason Holder brings a wealth of experience and skill, while Tom Banton provides another explosive option. We are also excited about the potential of Ashok Sharma and our other new acquisitions."
The owners believe that the new additions will complement the retained core, addressing the weaknesses identified from the previous season. With a blend of experienced international stars and promising domestic talent, the Gujarat Titans are confident in their chances for the IPL 2026 season. The focus will be on integrating the new players into the team dynamic and fine-tuning their strategies under the guidance of the coaching staff. The franchise is aiming to build on their past successes and make a strong push for the title in the upcoming season.
