Ravichandran Ashwin Points Out GT’s Middle Order Pain In IPL 2026; Backs Jason Holder To Play

Gujarat Titans face middle-order concerns as Ravi Ashwin suggests changes amid their poor start to IPL 2026.

Led by Shubman Gill, Gujarat Titans have so far been flat with two consecutive losses in IPL 2026. In their inaugural clash against Punjab, they were defeated by three wickets, and against Rajasthan too, a Shubman Gill-less Gujarat suffered a six-run defeat.

Now, as they are set to face Delhi Capitals, Ravichandran Ashwin, former India spinner and ex-CSK legend, has shared a number of suggestions for the management. Apparently, Gujarat Titans do not have any replacement for Indian batters in the lineup, and hence, they are unknowingly backing Shahrukh Khan in the batting order despite his patch of poor form.

Notably, Shahrukh has scored only 4 and 11 runs so far this season, and Ashwin pointed out this gap in the lineup, stating that GT lacks a middle-order batter on the bench who can replace him.

Ashwin Backs Jason Holder To Swap With Shahrukh

As advice, Ashwin suggested on his YouTube channel, Ash ki Baat, that the Gujarat Titans management should consider bringing in West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder to strengthen their struggling middle order.

“They can consider making a place for Jason Holder. They don’t have any replacements for Indian batters. They have Shahrukh Khan, but they don’t have any replacement for him. They are in a bit of a catch. They don’t have enough resources in the middle order. If Jason Holder comes in, they will then get another experienced batter” Ashwin said while speaking on his YouTube video.

However, it is also worth noting that Holder is not a specialist batting all-rounder and is primarily a pace bowler who can contribute with the bat.

Lacking strong technical ability with the bat, Jason Holder’s inclusion as a replacement for Shahrukh Khan can be questioned. Still, given Holder’s experience in T20 cricket and his ability to strike big, he might be considered a better option.

ALSO READ | ‘Give Them a Chance’: R. Ashwin Tears Into CSK After PBKS Defeat Exposes Deeper Problems

Nevertheless, whether GT opts for a Holder-Shahrukh replacement or not, they are currently struggling in ninth position on the points table, with the middle order comprising Glenn Phillips, Washington Sundar, and Rahul Tewatia, who have also not performed well under pressure.

As Shubman Gill missed the last game due to a neck spasm, the team will hope he is fit for the clash against Delhi Capitals, as Rashid Khan mentioned in the last press conference.