The Gujarat Titans (GT), who are the defending champions, possess a team that is very formidable. They have a well-rounded set of players as they head into the IPL 2023.
The squad comprises of both seasoned and young players who are recognized for their abilities in the shortest format of the sport. Hardik Pandya, the dynamic all-rounder, will be leading the team.
1. Hardik Pandya
In the inaugural tournament of the recently established team, the Gujarat Titans, Hardik Pandya was recruited as a player and appointed as their captain. The 29-year-old guided the Ahmedabad-based squad to victory, making him the first captain, after Shane Warne, to secure the championship with a team in its debut season. Throughout the season, the all-rounder led by example primarily with the bat, finishing as the fourth-highest run scorer in the 2022 IPL season with a tally of 487 runs from 15 matches. However, he could only manage to claim eight wickets in the previous season.
2. Shubman Gill
During the IPL 2022, Shubman Gill emerged as one of the most talented players for the Gujarat Titans. Batting at the top of the order, he provided stability to the team. It is highly likely that Gill will play a pivotal part in the squad in 2023. In his debut season for the Gujarat Titans, the young cricketer made a significant contribution to the team’s triumph, scoring 483 runs with four half-centuries in 16 matches at a strike rate of 132.32.
3. Mohammed Shami
Mohammed Shami, an experienced Indian fast bowler, played a crucial part in the Gujarat Titans’ victory in the IPL 2022. He consistently provided his team with early wickets. The team acquired Shami’s services for INR 6.25 crore, making him their fifth most expensive player for IPL 2023. Shami participated in all 16 matches and claimed 20 wickets with an economy rate of 8. He will undoubtedly have a significant role to play for Gujarat in the upcoming season.
4. Rashid Khan
Rashid Khan has been top players in the Indian Premier League over the last few seasons. The renowned leg-spinner was acquired by the Gujarat Titans for INR 15 crore, making him their second most expensive player. Additionally, he holds the position of vice-captain within the team and contributed significantly to their victory in the IPL. In the 2022 season, Rashid appeared in all 16 games, taking 19 wickets with an impressive economy rate of 6.60. He also played some valuable cameos down the order, finishing with a remarkable strike rate of 206.82.
5. David Miller
David Miller is a destructive batsman in the middle-order who has demonstrated consistent performances in the Indian Premier League over the years. He typically played as a finisher, occupying a lower batting position in the order. Throughout 15 innings, he amassed an impressive total of 481 runs. In the upcoming IPL 2023, Miller is expected to play a significant role for the team again, with his explosive style of batting being a valuable asset to the squad.
