In a crucial decision that reinforces the Gujarat Titans’ (GT) core team structure, both Shubman Gill and Rashid Khan have been confirmed to remain with the franchise ahead of the IPL 2025 season.
Just days before the IPL retention deadline, reports from ANI quashed ongoing speculation, clarifying that the Titans’ star players would not enter the auction pool for the 2025 mega auction. This news brings relief to GT fans who feared the potential loss of two of the team’s most pivotal players.
Gill, who took over the captaincy from Hardik Pandya last season, has emerged as a promising leader for GT. Despite a challenging 2024 season that saw GT finishing eighth, Gill’s personal performance remained strong, amassing 426 runs.
As he enters his second season as captain, the 24-year-old is not only focused on runs but also on establishing a long-term, competitive culture within the franchise. With Gill’s top-order consistency and vision for the team’s growth, GT is positioning itself to bounce back in IPL 2025.
Rashid Khan’s commitment to GT is equally significant. Known globally for his T20 prowess, Rashid has been a crucial component of GT’s success since joining in 2022. In 45 matches, the Afghan leg-spinner has taken 56 wickets and has been a reliable contributor with the bat, often stepping up in high-stakes situations.
Rumours of a potential move to Mumbai Indians surfaced due to his association with MI’s other global franchises, fueling speculation that MI could pursue him if he entered the auction. However, Rashid’s decision to stay with GT shows his loyalty to the franchise, with whom he’s built a formidable rapport since its debut.
Alongside Gill and Rashid, GT is also looking to retain other key players, including David Miller and Sai Sudharsan. Miller has proven invaluable in GT’s middle order, delivering stability and power in clutch moments. His strike rate of 151.07 last season highlights his effectiveness, even in limited appearances.
Sudharsan, a breakout star, amassed 527 runs last season, showing consistency with a century and two half-centuries. Both players are considered assets for the long-term.
Additionally, the Titans are eyeing several uncapped players, such as Rahul Tewatia and Abhinav Manohar, to add depth to their roster. Tewatia’s ability to deliver under pressure and Manohar’s aggressive batting style would further bolster GT’s lineup as they strategize for the upcoming season.
Under the IPL’s updated retention guidelines, franchises can retain up to five capped players and two uncapped ones, allowing GT to secure a stable core while exploring fresh talent in the auction.
With a solid base of retained talent, GT is poised to enter IPL 2025 with renewed confidence. Shubman Gill’s leadership, Rashid Khan’s skill, and David Miller’s experience offer the team a balanced approach. For fans, the assurance of Gill and Rashid staying is a strong indicator that the Titans are gearing up for a powerful comeback, focusing on continuity and growth as they aim to reclaim their title contender status.
