Gujarat Titans set to release Shahrukh Khan, Glenn Phillips before IPL 2027 auction

Gujarat Titans set to release Shahrukh Khan, Glenn Phillips before IPL 2027 auction

Gujarat Titans Weigh Shahrukh Khan and Glenn Phillips Releases Ahead of IPL 2027 Auction

Gujarat Titans could make two notable changes to their squad before the IPL 2027 mini-auction, with middle-order batter Shahrukh Khan and New Zealand all-rounder Glenn Phillips reportedly among the players under consideration for release. The possible moves would give the franchise more room to reshape its squad after a strong 2026 campaign ended in disappointment with defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the final.

According to a report shared by PTI journalist Kushan Sarkar, Gujarat are largely settled but may part ways with the two players as they review their options ahead of the auction. South African player Connor Esterhuizen, meanwhile, could be retained. These are reported possibilities rather than confirmed decisions: the franchise has yet to announce its final retention and release list.

Why Gujarat Titans may move on from Shahrukh Khan

Shahrukh was brought in to provide power and composure in the middle and lower order. Gujarat signed the Indian batter for ₹7.4 crore ahead of the 2024 season, investing in his ability to accelerate late in an innings and finish close games. His record has included flashes of that potential, but his output has varied considerably from season to season.

In 2024, Shahrukh scored 127 runs in seven matches. One of the highlights was his maiden IPL half-century: 58 from 30 deliveries against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The following season, he made 179 runs in 15 appearances at a strike rate of 179, offering the kind of aggressive scoring Gujarat had hoped to see from him.

His 2026 campaign, however, was a sharp step backwards. Shahrukh managed just 43 runs in nine matches, averaging 10.75 and striking at 130.30. For a batter expected to deliver quick runs in the closing overs, those figures may prompt the team to reassess his role and value ahead of the auction.

A release would not necessarily signal that Gujarat have given up on Shahrukh’s ability. Rather, it could reflect the practical demands of building a balanced squad: teams must weigh recent form, available alternatives, auction prices and the amount of money they want to keep available for bidding. If released, he could still attract interest from franchises looking for an Indian power-hitter, while Gujarat would have the opportunity to target a different finisher or strengthen another area.

Glenn Phillips’ limited opportunities and IPL returns

Glenn Phillips arrived at Gujarat Titans with a broad skill set. The New Zealand international can bat aggressively, contribute with the ball and make a difference in the field, where his athleticism is a major asset. Gujarat signed him for ₹2 crore at the 2025 auction, but his first season with the franchise was cut short before it began: an injury ruled him out of the entire tournament.

Phillips returned in 2026 but had limited opportunities to establish himself. Across five matches, he scored 67 runs at a strike rate of 124.07, with a highest score of 25 against Punjab Kings. He did not take a wicket during the season. His fielding remained a positive, but the franchise may be looking for a more consistent return from an overseas spot, particularly if it wants greater flexibility in its playing combination.

Releasing Phillips could allow Gujarat to pursue a specialist batter, a dependable all-rounder or a player better suited to the balance of the squad. However, his international experience and multi-dimensional game could also make him an attractive option for other teams if he enters the auction pool. As with Shahrukh, his reported status should be treated as provisional until Gujarat confirms its plans.

Gujarat’s progress raises the stakes for squad planning

The potential changes come after a period of improvement for the Shubman Gill-led side. Gujarat finished eighth in 2024 after winning five matches, then rebounded in 2025 to place fourth and qualify for the playoffs. In 2026, the Titans won 10 matches and advanced to the final, where they fell short against RCB.

That run suggests Gujarat already have a competitive foundation. The challenge now is to strengthen the areas that could make the difference in a title-deciding match. A deep batting order, reliable finishing and useful options across the bowling attack are all important in the IPL, where a small number of close contests can shape a team’s season.

The final defeat may therefore influence how the franchise approaches the auction—not necessarily through a sweeping rebuild, but through targeted adjustments. Gujarat could look for greater consistency from its middle order, extra depth in the all-rounder department or additional cover for key roles. Any decision will also depend on the purse available, the players retained and the options likely to be on the market.

What to watch before the IPL 2027 mini-auction

For now, the reported release plans remain part of the early IPL 2027 auction prediction rather than an official announcement. Gujarat’s confirmed retention list will provide a clearer picture of its strategy, including whether the franchise prioritises proven IPL performers, emerging Indian talent or overseas players who can fill multiple roles.

Shahrukh’s past bursts of power and Phillips’ all-round potential could both make them interesting names if they become available. But Gujarat’s decision will ultimately come down to how the management assesses their recent contributions against the demands of the squad. Until the franchise releases its official list, supporters should view the reports as an indication of possible changes—not a final verdict on either player’s future.

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