Gujarat Giants struggled badly in their first two WPL seasons honestly. They finished dead last both times which hurt the franchise. But WPL 2025 showed some improvement as they reached the top three.
Now, the Giants face crucial retention decisions before the WPL 2026 mega auction. The Adani Group-owned team wants to rebuild properly this time. The deadline for players retaining is November 5 for all teams.
The retention list will decide the Giants’ future trajectory going forward. The auction happens later in November after the retained players’ announcements.
Gujarat Giants’ WPL 2026 Retention List – Who Stays
- Ashleigh Gardner
The Australian captain tops the Gujarat Giants retention list obviously. She’s ranked the No. 1 all-rounder in women’s cricket currently. Gardner leads in both runs scored and wickets taken since the league started. Her leadership and performances make her indispensable for the franchise, clearly.
- Phoebe Litchfield
The young Aussie batter shone in the Women’s Hundred tournament brilliantly. Giants see her as a long-term investment for future seasons. Her potential justifies keeping her in the WPL 2026 squad definitely.
- Shabnam Shakil
The uncapped Indian pacer might get retained as a domestic player. She bowls quickly and received an India call-up recently which validates selection. Her pace gives the Giants variety in their bowling attack.
Big Names Gujarat Giants Might Release for WPL 2026
- Laura Wolvaardt
The former Gujarat Giants captain might get released surprisingly. She scored heavily at the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup recently. But limited overseas retention slots force tough decisions on the team.
- Deandra Dottin
The Caribbean power-hitter performed well in WPL 2025 impressively. Unfortunately, teams can keep only a limited overseas players in retention. Dottin might become a victim of overseas quota restrictions sadly.
Gujarat Giants’ Strategy for WPL 2026 Rebuild
The keeping of players’ decisions shows the Giants want youth over experience now. Building around young talent gives them long-term stability for growth.
The WPL 2026 mega auction will help them fill remaining squad gaps. Giants must nurture youngsters to turn their fortunes around completely.
