3 Reasons Why Mohammed Shami's Release Will Hurt GT In IPL 2025

Sakshi Sharma

Mohammed Shami playing for GT (Source:@CricCrazyJohns,x.com)Mohammed Shami playing for GT (Source:@CricCrazyJohns,x.com)

The 2025 IPL mega auction saw a surprising turn of event when Gujarat Titans (GT) made the bold decision not to retain Mohammad Shami and not even use RTM for him, despite his stellar performance in the previous season. Shami, who was the Purple Cap winner in IPL 2023 and played a crucial role in GT’s bowling attack, but due to several injury concerns he was released by GT. 

However, it is important to note that he was subsequently picked up by Sunrisers Hyderabad for a hefty sum of Rs 10 Crores in IPL 2025 auction. 

This move by GT have left many fans in shock and they have raised several question. This decision might impact and hurt Gujarat and they will likely regret letting go of the experienced fast bowler in the long run. As we look ahead to IPL 2025, in this article check 3 reasons why GT’s decision could come back to haunt them.

Current Form in SMAT (Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025)

  • Mohammed Shami is in superb form in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2025. He despite having recovered from injury have played six consecutive matches in SMAT 2025. And not just that he made made significant contribution for Bengal as he has taken three wickets against Hyderabad. 
  • GT’s decision to release Shami might be regretted if we consider Shami's recent form. Given the possibility that he may feature in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) for the second Test match because of his good form. It is important to state that GT might miss having him in their ranks in IPL 2025. 

Experience In IPL

  • Shami's experience in the IPL makes him an invaluable player for any team. With over 77 IPL matches under his belt, Shami brings a level of maturity and experience. He has represented four IPL franchises over the years, starting with Kolkata Knight Riders (2013), followed by Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings, and most recently, Gujarat Titans.
  • In the 2024 season, despite being sidelined due to injury, Shami’s experience in the IPL is significant. He had been the cornerstone of Gujarat’s bowling attack in the 2022 and 2023 seasons, regularly leading from the front and offering crucial breakthroughs. 

Purple Cap Holder In IPL 2023

  • Shami's stellar performance in IPL 2023, where he claimed the Purple Cap. He finished the season as the highest wicket-taker with 28 wickets in 17 matches. 
  • Moreover, Shami's performances for India during the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he was the highest wicket-taker with 24 wickets. Such experience and form are hard to replace, and GT could have leveraged Shami’s IPL 2023 success as a springboard for IPL 2025.