The Gujarat Titans have made a strategic move in IPL 2025, securing Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka after an injury sidelined Glenn Phillips. The franchise confirmed the signing for a base price of INR 75 lakh, following official league protocols.
Phillips, who joined the squad for INR 2 crore, suffered a groin injury during the match against Sunrisers Hyderabad. This marks the third mid-season replacement for the Titans in IPL history. The team currently holds second place with four wins in six matches.
Shanaka brings experience and versatility, becoming the first Sri Lankan player added to the Gujarat Titans roster this season. His inclusion comes ahead of a crucial clash against Delhi Capitals at Narendra Modi Stadium. For more on GT’s squad dynamics, check the full player list.
Gujarat Titans Announce Dasun Shanaka as Replacement for Glenn Phillips
Midway through the season, Glenn Phillips’ campaign ended abruptly due to a groin strain. The injury occurred during a high-intensity fielding effort against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 15. Medical scans revealed a grade 2 tear, requiring immediate rehabilitation in New Zealand.
Phillips’ Groin Injury Ends IPL 2025 Campaign Early
The Titans’ medical team confirmed the injury would sideline Phillips for the remainder of IPL 2025. This marks the franchise’s third mid-season replacement since 2023. Below is a comparison of their replacement strategies:
| Year | Injured Player | Replacement | Investment (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Kane Williamson | Odean Smith | 50 lakh |
| 2025 | Glenn Phillips | Dasun Shanaka | 75 lakh |
Shanaka Joins GT for Base Price of INR 75 Lakh
The Sri Lankan all-rounder brings versatility, having played three matches for the Titans in 2023. His signing was approved by the IPL governing council within 48 hours. The move balances GT’s overseas player quota, retaining four international slots.
Shanaka’s integration includes a condensed training schedule ahead of the Delhi Capitals clash. His experience in Indian conditions adds strategic depth to the squad’s playoff push.
Who Is Dasun Shanaka? Sri Lankan All-Rounder’s Profile
Sri Lanka’s dynamic all-rounder brings a wealth of experience to the IPL stage. A former white-ball captain, he combines aggressive batting with tactical medium-pace bowling. His career spans nearly a decade, marked by clutch performances in high-pressure matches.
Shanaka’s Previous Stint with Gujarat Titans in 2023
During the 2023 season, he featured in three games, showcasing his adaptability in Indian conditions. Though his stats weren’t headline-grabbing, his fielding (47 T20I catches) and middle-order stability stood out. The franchise retained him as a backup, recognizing his utility.
International Career: 102 T20Is and 1,456 Runs for Sri Lanka
Since his 2015 debut, Shanaka has scored 1,456 runs at a strike rate of 118.34. His 33 wickets and economy of 8.12 highlight his all-round value. Leadership credentials include captaining Sri Lanka to the 2022 Asia Cup final.
Recent form in the 2024 Lanka Premier League reinforced his reputation as a finisher. Compared to other Sri Lankan IPL all-rounders, his dual skills make him a rare asset.
Impact on Gujarat Titans’ IPL 2025 Season
With four wins in six matches, the Gujarat Titans hold a strong position in IPL 2025. Their net run rate (NRR) of +0.742 keeps them ahead of third-place Chennai Super Kings. Key to their success: Sai Sudharsan’s 329 runs at a 54.83 average.
GT’s Current Standings: Second on Points Table
The Titans trail table-toppers Rajasthan Royals by just two points. Their upcoming fixtures against Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings will test their depth. Below, their performance compared to top rivals:
| Team | Matches | Wins | NRR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rajasthan Royals | 6 | 5 | +0.876 |
| Gujarat Titans | 6 | 4 | +0.742 |
How Shanaka Fills the Void Left by Phillips
The Sri Lankan’s T20 strike rate (118.34) edges Phillips’ (115.62), offering aggressive finishes. His fielding adds value—47 catches in T20Is versus Phillips’ 32. Tactical adjustments include:
- Batting Order: Likely slots at No. 6, stabilizing the lower middle-order.
- Overseas Balance: Retains four international players, crucial for playoff flexibility.
- Playoff Path: Requires 3+ wins from remaining 8 games for top-two contention.
Conclusion: A Strategic Move for GT’s Playoff Push
With a 2-1 record against Delhi Capitals, the Gujarat Titans’ latest signing arrives at a pivotal moment. The franchise’s strategic pivot to Dasun Shanaka balances experience with cost-efficiency—a base price of INR 75 lakh preserves auction flexibility for future seasons.
Fan reactions skew positive, citing Shanaka’s clutch performances in IPL 2025. Experts note his T20I strike rate (118.34) aligns with GT’s aggressive middle-order needs. Historical data favors mid-season replacements: 60% of such moves since 2020 yielded playoff berths.
The Titans’ next clash at Narendra Modi Stadium could solidify their top-two bid. A win would extend their lead over third-place Chennai Super Kings, leveraging Shanaka’s dual skills. For now, the move appears a calculated step toward the title.
