The Gujarat Titans (GT), one of the most consistent teams in the IPL, made a strong statement at the 2025 auction. By signing 20 players, GT ensured that their squad is well-rounded with a mix of experience, youth, and firepower. England’s T20I captain Jos Buttler emerged as their most expensive acquisition at ₹15.75 crore, while marquee pacers Kagiso Rabada and Mohammed Siraj further bolstered their bowling attack. Here’s an in-depth analysis of the Gujarat Titans’ squad, auction strategy, and their prospects for IPL 2025.
GT IPL 2025 Squad: Full List
Retained Players
- Rashid Khan (₹18 crore): A world-class spinner and a T20 match-winner.
- Shubman Gill (₹16.5 crore): A stylish top-order batter with an excellent IPL record.
- Sai Sudharsan (₹8.5 crore): A promising young batter who has shown immense potential.
- Rahul Tewatia (₹4 crore): A game-changing all-rounder with the ability to finish matches.
- Shahrukh Khan (₹4 crore): A power-hitter capable of quick finishes.
New Signings
- Jos Buttler (₹15.75 crore): England’s T20I captain and one of the best white-ball players globally.
- Kagiso Rabada (₹10.75 crore): A proven pacer with the ability to bowl in all phases.
- Mohammed Siraj (₹12.25 crore): An Indian pacer known for his fiery spells.
- Prasidh Krishna (₹9.50 crore): A tall pacer with bounce and accuracy.
- Nishant Sindhu (₹30 lakh): A young domestic player with potential.
- Mahipal Lomror (₹1.70 crore): A dependable middle-order batter.
- Kumar Kushagra (₹65 lakh): A wicketkeeper-batter providing backup options.
- Anuj Rawat (₹30 lakh): Another young wicketkeeper-batter.
- Manav Suthar (₹30 lakh): A domestic talent for depth.
- Washington Sundar (₹3.20 crore): A versatile all-rounder and powerplay specialist.
- Gerald Coetzee (₹2.40 crore): A South African pacer with raw pace.
- Arshad Khan (₹1.30 crore): A promising domestic all-rounder.
- Gurnoor Brar (₹1.30 crore): Another domestic addition for depth.
- Sherfane Rutherford (₹2.60 crore): A hard-hitting West Indian all-rounder.
- Sai Kishore (₹2 crore): A reliable left-arm spinner.
- Ishant Sharma (₹75 lakh): An experienced pacer for specific conditions.
- Jayant Yadav (₹75 lakh): A spinner adding variety to the attack.
- Glenn Phillips (₹2 crore): A dynamic batter and occasional keeper.
- Karim Janat (₹75 lakh): A versatile Afghan all-rounder.
- Kulwant Khejroliya (₹30 lakh): A left-arm pacer for backup.
Key Highlights of GT’s Auction Strategy
1. Securing Explosive Top-Order Power
Jos Buttler’s inclusion adds firepower to GT’s batting lineup. His ability to dominate in the powerplay and finish games single-handedly makes him a match-winner. With Shubman Gill anchoring the innings, Buttler provides the aggression GT needs at the top.
2. Bolstering the Pace Attack
GT went all out to strengthen their pace department, acquiring Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj, and Prasidh Krishna. Rabada and Siraj are world-class bowlers capable of excelling in the powerplay and at the death. Prasidh Krishna’s bounce and accuracy add a new dimension to GT’s attack. Gerald Coetzee and Ishant Sharma provide further options.
3. Versatility in the Middle Order
The likes of Sherfane Rutherford, Mahipal Lomror, and Shahrukh Khan add depth and flexibility to GT’s middle order. These players can adapt to different match situations, whether stabilizing innings or accelerating toward the end.
4. Strengthening Spin Options
With Rashid Khan already a vital cog, GT bolstered their spin department with Sai Kishore, Washington Sundar, and Jayant Yadav. This variety ensures GT has options for spin-friendly conditions.
5. Focus on All-Rounders
GT’s strategy to include multi-dimensional players like Washington Sundar, Sherfane Rutherford, and Karim Janat ensures depth in both batting and bowling. This flexibility allows GT to adapt to different match situations and team combinations.
Star Signings: Impact Players for GT
1. Jos Buttler (₹15.75 crore)
Buttler’s consistency and ability to score at a rapid pace make him one of the most dangerous T20 players. His leadership skills and experience will also be invaluable for GT.
2. Kagiso Rabada (₹10.75 crore)
Rabada’s ability to bowl lethal yorkers and take wickets at crucial moments makes him a key signing. His experience across global T20 leagues adds depth to GT’s bowling attack.
3. Mohammed Siraj (₹12.25 crore)
Siraj’s recent performances in T20 cricket, combined with his ability to swing the ball at pace, make him a potent weapon in GT’s arsenal.
4. Washington Sundar (₹3.20 crore)
Sundar’s ability to bowl economically in the powerplay and contribute with the bat adds balance to GT’s squad.
5. Prasidh Krishna (₹9.50 crore)
Prasidh’s height and ability to generate bounce make him a threat on fast pitches. His inclusion strengthens GT’s pace attack further.
Strengths of GT’s Squad Post-Auction
1. Balanced Bowling Attack
With Rabada, Siraj, Prasidh, and Rashid, GT boasts a world-class bowling lineup. The mix of pace and spin options ensures the team can perform in any conditions.
2. Explosive Batting Order
The combination of Buttler, Gill, and Sudharsan at the top provides stability and aggression. The middle order, led by Shahrukh Khan and Sherfane Rutherford, ensures depth and firepower.
3. All-Round Depth
Players like Sundar, Tewatia, and Rutherford bring all-round capabilities, giving GT multiple options for team combinations.
4. Experience and Leadership
With players like Buttler, Rabada, and Rashid Khan, GT has leaders across departments. This experience will be crucial in high-pressure games.
Challenges and Weaknesses
1. Over-Reliance on Key Players
GT’s success could hinge on the performances of Buttler, Gill, and Rashid Khan. Injuries or loss of form for these players could disrupt the team’s balance.
2. Finishing Concerns
While the middle order looks strong, GT lacks a proven finisher who can consistently close out games under pressure.
3. Backup Options
While GT has a strong core, their bench strength in the batting department appears thin, especially if injuries occur.
Predicted Playing XI for GT in IPL 2025
- Jos Buttler
- Shubman Gill
- Sai Sudharsan
- Sherfane Rutherford
- Rahul Tewatia
- Washington Sundar
- Shahrukh Khan
- Kagiso Rabada
- Mohammed Siraj
- Rashid Khan
- Prasidh Krishna
Conclusion
The Gujarat Titans have emerged from the IPL 2025 auction with a formidable squad capable of competing for the title. The acquisitions of Jos Buttler, Kagiso Rabada, and Mohammed Siraj address key gaps, while retaining stars like Rashid Khan and Shubman Gill ensures continuity.
While challenges such as finishing depth and over-reliance on key players remain, GT’s balanced squad and strategic signings make them strong contenders for the upcoming season. With a mix of experience, youth, and all-round talent, Gujarat Titans are well-positioned to make a significant impact in IPL 2025.
