Rahul Tewatia, Kagiso Rabada and…. News24 –

IPL 2026 Auction: After a promising start to their IPL journey – lifting the trophy in 2022 and finishing runners-up in 2023, the Gujarat Titans (GT) have had relatively quieter campaigns in the last two seasons. In IPL 2025, the Shubman Gill-led side secured a fourth-place finish, but lacked the edge that once made them title contenders.

With the IPL 2026 mini-auction around the corner, GT will likely reassess their squad, trim the fat, and release underperforming or injury-prone players to make room for fresh talent. Here are 5 players Gujarat Titans might release ahead of IPL 2026 to rebuild their squad and aim for another title run.

Gerald Coetzee 

South African pacer Gerald Coetzee featured in only four matches in IPL 2025 and managed just two wickets. Despite his pace and promise, Coetzee hasn’t lived up to expectations in the IPL or in other franchise leagues.

His inconsistent performances and history of injuries may push GT to look for a more reliable overseas fast bowler. With overseas slots being extremely valuable, Coetzee’s place looks increasingly vulnerable.

Ishant Sharma

The ever-experienced Ishant Sharma, who has been a part of the IPL since its inception, might be nearing the end of his T20 journey. In IPL 2025, he played seven matches and picked up just four wickets.

At 36 years of age, age and fitness concerns seem to be affecting his ability to deliver consistently. With GT likely looking to inject more youth and pace into their attack, Ishant might be released to free up space for younger, faster Indian pacers.

Karim Janat

Karim Janat, the Afghan all-rounder, played just one game for GT in IPL 2025 and it didn’t go well. He conceded runs without providing much with the bat, making little to no impact.

Coupled with his patchy international form, Janat’s spot in the squad seems expendable. GT might opt for a more versatile overseas all-rounder, especially with better T20 performers emerging in the global circuit.

Kagiso Rabada 

Once considered a premium IPL fast bowler, Kagiso Rabada struggled in the 2025 season. He played only four matches, claimed just two wickets, and was forced to return to South Africa mid-season due to a drug abuse case.

Despite his pedigree, Rabada’s off-field issues and lack of form make his retention a gamble. With Siraj and Prasidh Krishna performing well, GT may opt to release Rabada or try and buy him back at a lower price if they still see value in him.

Rahul Tewatia

Known for his clutch finishes, Rahul Tewatia had a forgettable IPL 2025. In 12 innings, he scored just 99 runs, mostly during the death overs, with little time to settle or turn games around.

Despite being retained for a hefty Rs 4 crore in the last auction, his impact didn’t justify the price tag. He also wasn’t used much with the ball, questioning his all-rounder value. GT might look to release Tewatia and either pick him again for cheaper or replace him with a more involved finisher.

The Road Ahead for GT

Releasing these five players could free up funds and overseas slots, giving Gujarat Titans more flexibility to target in-form domestic and international stars in the mini-auction. After two underwhelming seasons, strategic squad changes are crucial if GT want to recreate the magic of their 2022 title win.