During the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL) auction, the Gujarat Titans (GT) did not have as much money as some of the other teams, but they were still able to make important additions to their lineup.
On December 23, GT signed seven players, with two of them set to walk directly into their starting XI after making their debut. The reigning champions have kept the core of their team that helped them win the championship notwithstanding, and as a result of their strong performance in the auction, they are in a great position to have another successful Indian Premier League season.
Shivam Mavi might bridge the gap that exists between the batting and bowling groups.
During the IPL 2022, the batting unit for GT received a lot of criticism, with the majority of people holding the idea that they did not have enough depth in the area. In light of the fact that Rashid Khan batted seventh in the playing XI, there was also some validity to the assertion that was being made. The Titans were able to overcome their deficiencies, but this was only possible because to players like David Miller and Hardik Pandya having their best seasons, along with assistance from Rahul Tewatia and Shubman Gill. During the auction for the IPL 2023, they wanted to find a lower-order all-rounder, and they were able to accomplish this goal by signing Shivam Mavi.
The Titans have acquired two outstanding players from abroad as backups.
During the IPL 2023 auction, GT was able to acquire two strong foreign backups in the form of Odean Smith and Josh Little. While the team acquired the former player for the same amount that was listed on his basic price, the later player was acquired by the Titans for 4.4 crore. Hardik Pandya and the rest of the team had a substantial boost from Dominic Drakes and Lockie Ferguson, who, respectively, were inexperienced and on massive contracts. It is possible that Odean, with his powerful hitting and fast speed, will have a part to play as the competition continues. On the other side, with his all-phase prowess and left-arm angle, Little will make for a good backup for Joseph.
KS Bharat, a wicket-keeper from India, was acquired by GT.
In the IPL 2023 auction, GT sorely wanted an Indian wicket-keeper, and mock auctions held before the actual event all pointed to KS Bharat as a likely choice. Bharat is a very good spin bowler, and his addition to the team would be a good compliment to players like Shubman Gill and Hardik Pandya. Since he bats in the top order and is regarded as one of the nation’s greatest fielders, he can stand in for the injury-prone Wriddhiman Saha anytime it is necessary. Given Saha’s limitations, the 29-year-old player may possibly be considered the first option.