The Gujarat Titans are gearing up for the IPL 2026 auction. After a commendable 2025 season, where they secured third place in the points table with nine victories and five defeats, GT has once again demonstrated their status as one of the most reliable franchises. The contributions of their top order and bowling attack were significant throughout the season; however, certain middle-order and bowling performances proved detrimental during their Eliminator match against the Mumbai Indians. As the mini-auction approaches and the deadline for submitting retained players lists nears, GT's management may need to reconsider their strategy. A few underperforming players could be traded or released, allowing for the introduction of new talent. The team, led by Shubman Gill, may now seek to refine their roster to regain the dominance they experienced during their title-winning inaugural season. Rahul Tewatia Image Source: BCCI All-rounder Rahul Tewatia may be among the players the Gujarat Titans consider releasing prior to the IPL 2026 season. Although he is recognized as a dependable finisher, Tewatia had a subdued IPL 2025, accumulating only 99 runs in 12 innings, primarily during the death overs when he seldom had the opportunity to settle in or make a significant impact. Retained for INR 4 crore in the 2025 season, his performance did not align with the financial commitment. The dominance of GT's top order last season resulted in limited opportunities for him, and his bowling was not utilized effectively. With the franchise anticipated to bolster their middle order and enhance their bowling depth, Tewatia may indeed be traded or released ahead of the 2026 auction. Also Read | Kuldeep Yadav Ruled Out of Remaining T20Is, BCCI Reveals Reason Ishant Sharma Image Source: BCCI Veteran Indian fast bowler Ishant Sharma is a potential candidate for release by the Gujarat-based franchise. The 37-year-old's advancing age and fitness issues have gradually begun to impact his speed and overall performance. During IPL 2025, Ishant participated in seven matches, taking only four wickets with an average of 51.25 and an economy rate of 11.18. Once a dependable new-ball bowler, Ishant has struggled to adjust to the aggressive batting style of contemporary players. Consequently, GT may opt to revamp their bowling lineup by incorporating younger and fresher pacers who could provide a long-term benefit. Rashid Khan Image Source: BCCI One of the most prominent players the Titans might consider trading is star spinner Rashid Khan. The Afghan sensation, who has been with the team since its inception in 2022, experienced his most challenging IPL season in 2025. He secured only 9 wickets across 15 innings, averaging over 40 with an economy rate of 8.75. His batting performance was equally unimpressive, amassing just 40 runs in eight innings at an average of 8.00 and a strike rate of 142.86. His struggles persisted into the early rounds of the 2025 Asia Cup, where he recorded three wickets and 47 runs in three matches as Afghanistan was eliminated. Despite being retained for INR 18 crore, the franchise may contemplate trading him or allowing him to leave in order to free up funds for other players.