IPL 2025 Auction: 4 players GT can retain under current ‘3+1’ rule

In the previous edition, the Gujarat Titans (GT) they finished their journey in Indian Premier League (IPL) with a series of disappointing washes against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) again Sunriers Hyderabad (SRH)culminating in a finish outside the top four.

The challenging IPL 2024 season is amid significant changes

Gujarat’s IPL 2024 campaign marked a departure from their previous success, accumulating just 12 points and finishing with one of the worst Net Run Rate (NRR) in eighth place. This decline followed a promising start with a championship win in 2022 and a runner-up finish in 2023. Key factors that contributed to their struggles include:

1. Losing Key Players: Departure of Hardik Pandya of Mumbai Indians (MI) again Mohammed ShamiSeason-ending injuries created huge gaps in the team. Pandya’s leadership and all-round skills were sorely missed, while Shami’s absence weakened the bowling attack.
2. Damages and Trade-offs: The twin setbacks of losing a top player and dealing with a major injury have disrupted the team’s balance and strategy, increasing the pressure on the remaining team members.
3. Leadership of Shubman Gill: As a young captain, Shubman Gill faced more scrutiny. Although he had a difficult start, he managed to regain his dignity as the season progressed, showing resistance to pressure.

IPL 2025 mega auction: Final 3+1 schedule and strategic implications

As the big auction of IPL 2025 approaches, Gujarat is facing a critical situation. The auction’s retention rules are yet to be finalised, but speculation suggests that teams may be allowed to retain at least four players, as in previous major auctions. However, there are discussions about increasing this limit to eight players. The possible introduction of the 3+1 rule, which allows teams to keep three Indian players and one foreign player (or, two Indian players and two foreign players), will have a major impact on team tactics.

Also READ: IPL 2025 auction: 4 players SRH can retain under current ‘3+1’ rule

Key players likely to be retained by Gujarat Titans:

1. Rashid Khan
   Rashid Khan, the Afghanistan spin sensation, a prime candidate for retention. His vast experience and game-changing abilities make him invaluable. With 56 wickets in 45 games for GT and a hat-trick in IPL 2023, Rashid’s contributions have been significant. His role as a leader and his low batting added to his value. Despite the change of captain, Rashid’s retention is very important for the team to maintain the level of competition.
2. Shubman Gill
   Shubman Gill, who took over as captain after Pandya’s departure, is likely to be retained. Despite a challenging season, Gill’s batting record is impressive. He scored 483 runs in his first season, 890 in 2023, and 426 runs in 2024. His consistency, especially at the Narendra Modi Stadium, underscores his importance to the team. Gill’s leadership ability and hitting ability make him a key figure for the franchise’s future.
3. Mohammed Shami
   Mohammed Shami’s absence from IPL 2024 has highlighted his importance for the Titans. His knowledge and effectiveness in various phases of the game make him a valuable asset. Shami’s impact on the team’s game was evident when he was injured, underscoring his importance. His retention is essential to restore stability and strength to the team’s bowling attack.
4. Sai Sudharsan
   Sai Sudharsan is a promising young talent who is likely to be retained. His impressive performance, with 1034 runs in 25 matches at a strike rate of 139.16, shows his potential. His ability to concentrate the innings and accelerate when needed, combined with his strong performances in IPL 2023 and 2024 and Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) 2024making him a long-term valuable asset for Gujarat.

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