Gujarat Titans have reportedly shown interest in Delhi Capitals batter Ashutosh Sharma ahead of the IPL 2027 season.

The potential move could involve a player exchange between the two franchises as they look to address different squad requirements.

Gujarat Titans (GT) are exploring options to strengthen their squad ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027 season, with Delhi Capitals (DC) batter Ashutosh Sharma reportedly emerging as a target. The development has brought a possible player trade between the two franchises into focus.

Ashutosh’s explosive batting makes him an interesting option for the Titans, but there could be more than one reason behind their interest. The proposed move also raises questions about how both teams could benefit from a potential exchange.

Why do Gujarat Titans want Ashutosh Sharma?

Gujarat Titans have a strong top order featuring Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan and Jos Buttler. However, their batting depth has been a concern, particularly when it comes to maintaining a high scoring rate during the final overs. Rahul Tewatia and Shahrukh Khan have not delivered consistently in finishing roles, leaving the franchise looking for a more reliable option. GT have reportedly even considered releasing Shahrukh, searching for a specialist finisher as more important.

Ashutosh could provide the explosive batting option they need. He has a career IPL strike rate of 168.86, while his domestic T20 record includes a strike rate of 175.69 and 90 sixes in 54 innings. He also scored 171 runs at a strike rate above 180 in domestic cricket last season. His ability to attack from the outset without needing too many deliveries to settle makes him an attractive option for the Titans, especially in overs 16 to 20.

Why could a Prasidh Krishna-Ashutosh Sharma swap work?

The reported trade discussions involve Ashutosh moving to Gujarat Titans, with Prasidh Krishna potentially heading to Delhi Capitals in exchange. Delhi originally acquired Ashutosh for ₹3.80 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction, while a direct swap could help both franchises manage their squad composition and finances ahead of the mini-auction. Gujarat have considerable pace-bowling depth, with options such as Mohammed Siraj, Kagiso Rabada and Krishna.

Delhi, meanwhile, have a different problem to solve. Their decision to trade T Natarajan to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) has increased the need for Indian fast-bowling reinforcements. There are also concerns over Mitchell Starc’s availability for the upcoming season, making a move for an experienced Indian pacer particularly valuable. The proposed exchange could therefore address the needs of both teams, with Gujarat adding a power-hitter and Delhi strengthening their pace attack.

Ashutosh’s move to Gujarat adds another dimension

Another factor that could work in Gujarat Titans’ favour is Ashutosh’s domestic cricket connection with the state. The batter switched his domestic allegiance from Madhya Pradesh to Gujarat earlier in 2026, giving the franchise’s management an opportunity to follow his development more closely.

His familiarity with the domestic setup could make the transition into the Titans’ environment easier. More importantly, the franchise would have a better understanding of his recent performances and development before making a decision on the potential trade.

Lucknow Super Giants also interested in Ashutosh Sharma

Gujarat Titans are reportedly not the only franchise interested in securing Ashutosh’s services. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have also held discussions with Delhi Capitals regarding a possible move for the batter. LSG have a strong collection of fast-bowling options, including Mayank Yadav, Avesh Khan and Mohsin Khan. Similar to Gujarat, they could use their pace-bowling depth as a bargaining advantage while looking to strengthen their batting lineup.

The competition could complicate Gujarat’s plans, particularly if Delhi receive multiple offers for the same player. With the November 17 retention and trade deadline approaching, the franchises will need to finalise their decisions soon. For Gujarat Titans, Ashutosh represents a potential solution to their finishing problem. Whether they can secure the deal with Krishna or another player involved remains to be seen, but their interest highlights the importance of adding more firepower to the lower-middle order ahead of IPL 2027.