Gujarat Titans Aim to Expand on Their Impressive IPL Debut Performance in New Cycle | Cricbuzz.com

### IPL 2025 Team Preview: Gujarat Titans Aim to Build on Promising Foundation in the Next IPL Cycle

**Author: Hariprasad Sadanandan**

The Gujarat Titans, who made a spectacular entrance into the Indian Premier League, face the challenge of rebounding from a lackluster 2024 season as they approach the new cycle. Following their unexpected rise in 2022 and 2023, the Titans struggled last season, largely due to the off-season trade of their charismatic captain, Hardik Pandya, to Mumbai Indians and the unfortunate injury of their pace spearhead, Mohammed Shami. Despite these setbacks, their performance during the 2022-24 cycle remained impressive, boasting 28 victories out of 45 games and topping the table in two consecutive years.

In preparation for the new cycle, the Titans have approached the rebuilding phase with strategic acumen. Shubman Gill, now at the helm, represents the mainstay of their retentive efforts. Meanwhile, the franchise successfully retained Afghan bowling maestro Rashid Khan, along with key performers Sai Sudharsan, Rahul Tewatia, and Shahrukh Khan, providing a robust backbone to their squad. This solid foundation enabled them to pursue high-profile acquisitions with confidence during the mega auction. The acquisition of Jos Buttler for INR 15.75 crore and Kagiso Rabada for INR 10.75 crore significantly enhances their batting and bowling prowess, respectively.

Buttler’s presence promises a formidable top-order partnership with Gill, while Rabada’s inclusion creates a potent bowling duo with Rashid. The addition of capped Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj at INR 12.25 crore further strengthens their attack. To bolster their finishing capabilities, the Titans secured West Indies’ Sherfane Rutherford for INR 2.60 crore. The team has also expanded its versatile options, recruiting Washington Sundar, Glenn Phillips, Gerald Coetzee, and Sai Kishore, with seasoned campaigner Ishant Sharma providing valuable experience. Consistent with their strategy, the Titans have placed an emphasis on acquiring aggressive fast bowlers and dynamic all-rounders, catering to a diverse age range.

#### Full Squad:
Shubman Gill (c), Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler, Kumar Kushagra, Anuj Rawat, Glenn Phillips, Sherfane Rutherford, Shahrukh Khan, Washington Sundar, Rahul Tewatia, Mahipal Lomror, Nishant Sindhu, Ravisrinivasan Sai Kishore, Jayant Yadav, Rashid Khan, Karim Janat, Gerald Coetzee, Gurnoor Brar, Ishant Sharma, Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Kulwant Khejroliya, Manav Suthar, Arshad Khan.

#### Best XII as It Stands:
Shubman Gill (c), Jos Buttler (wk), Sai Sudharsan, Glenn Phillips, Shahrukh Khan, Washington Sundar, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Kagiso Rabada, Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, Mahipal Lomror/R. Sai Kishore.

#### Injury/Availability Concerns:
Gerald Coetzee has been plagued by injuries recently, beginning with a hamstring issue during the SA20 season and followed by a groin injury that sidelined him after being named a replacement in the Champions Trophy. His availability for the season’s initial matches remains uncertain as he continues his recovery process.

#### Player with a Point to Prove:
Shubman Gill: Despite not finding a spot in India’s current fringe T20 lineup, Gill is heralded as the future of Indian batting. He is determined to demonstrate his prowess in the T20 format while showcasing his leadership capabilities, as he is seen as a potential future captain at the national level.

#### Potential Breakout Season:
Shahrukh Khan: Well-versed in domestic circuits for his impressive power play, Shahrukh has yet to consistently translate his explosive talent into the IPL stage. The 2025 season presents a golden opportunity for him to make a significant impact.

#### Fixture Build-Up and Upcoming Challenges:
The Titans commence their 2025 campaign with consecutive home fixtures against Punjab Kings (March 25) and Mumbai Indians (March 29). This is followed by a demanding schedule of four matches, including three away fixtures. After April 12, a relatively lighter period allows the team to recharge for the intensifying second half of the season.

#### Key Home Ground Statistic:
Out of seven IPL defeats suffered by the Titans in Ahmedabad, five were last-over finishes, including two thrilling contests ending with decisive hits off the final ball—against KKR (Rinku Singh vs. Yash Dayal) and in the IPL 2023 final against Chennai Super Kings (Mohit Sharma vs. Ravindra Jadeja).

*Statistical inputs provided by Roshan Gede.*

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**Tags:** Gujarat Titans, Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler, Indian Premier League 2025

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