IPL 2026 Auction Insights | Pathiv Patel about Gujarat Titans Plans for Middle Order and Finishers

IPL 2026 Auction: Washington Sundar Was Never on the Trade Table, Confirms Parthiv Patel

New Delhi, Dec 16 (IANS): Gujarat Titans (GT) assistant coach Parthiv Patel has firmly dismissed speculation around a possible trade involving Washington Sundar ahead of the IPL 2026 season, stating that the franchise never considered letting go of the versatile all-rounder.

Speaking after the conclusion of the IPL 2026 auction in Abu Dhabi, Patel underlined Sundar’s growing importance to the Titans setup, highlighting his all-round skills and adaptability across batting positions. Reports earlier had suggested that Sundar could be traded to Chennai Super Kings (CSK), but Patel clarified that such discussions never took place internally.

“In our thought process, we never thought of trying to trade Washington Sundar. Even if someone had asked us, it was never a doubt,” Patel said, adding that Sundar’s recent performances for India across formats have only strengthened GT’s belief in him. According to Patel, Sundar’s ability to bat anywhere in the order—whether at the top or lower down—combined with his off-spin bowling, gives the team crucial balance.

Washington Sundar, who was bought by Gujarat Titans for ₹3.2 crore last season, has had limited game time due to the Impact Player rule. He featured in just six matches but made a strong impression with a classy 49 against Sunrisers Hyderabad, underlining his batting depth. With his stock rising following consistent performances for India, GT are now eyeing Sundar as a potential solution to their number four slot, especially after Sherfane Rutherford was traded to Mumbai Indians.

Patel also spoke about middle-order flexibility, explaining that team selection will depend largely on conditions. He noted that Washington Sundar, Glenn Phillips, and newly acquired Tom Banton are all in contention, giving GT the luxury of options. “Whichever player comes in should be ready to play in the eleven. Conditions, pitch, and what we see in the nets will decide that,” he said.

Addressing the decision to sign Tom Banton over England wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith, Patel pointed to Banton’s greater T20 and IPL experience. While acknowledging Smith’s talent, Patel explained that Banton’s exposure to international cricket and prior IPL experience made him a better fit for the Titans’ plans.

Patel also brushed aside concerns regarding the form and fitness of finishers Rahul Tewatia and Shahrukh Khan. Tewatia is recovering from shoulder surgery, while Shahrukh endured a disappointing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Despite that, Patel expressed strong confidence in both players, recalling Tewatia’s match-winning contributions last season and backing Shahrukh’s ability to come good when it matters.

“March is still three months away. We truly trust in the ability of Rahul Tewatia and Shah Rukh Khan. They are very valuable players for us, and we have no doubts about them,” Patel concluded, sounding optimistic about Gujarat Titans’ balance and depth heading into IPL 2026.

#IPL2026 #IPLAuction #GujaratTitans #WashingtonSundar #ParthivPatel #ShubmanGill

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