Retained players
Australia ✈ · All-rounder
Explosive middle-order hitter and quality off-spinner. Gardner’s match-winning ability and consistency make her an automatic retention.
Australia ✈ · Wicketkeeper-batter
Prolific run-getter and composed anchor. Retained for leadership and top-order stability — Mooney is expected to captain in 2026.
Tactical snapshot
Retaining only overseas stalwarts shows Gujarat’s intent to rebuild domestically around them. Expect a full auction focus on Indian all-rounders and young hitters.
Deep analysis & retention review
Overview: Gujarat Giants executed the boldest retention strategy of WPL 2026 — holding only two players, both overseas, and releasing their previous core. The move highlights a reset approach aiming for renewed chemistry and improved balance across departments.
Retention rationale
World-class match-winners: Gardner & Mooney are proven tournament-definers with bat and ball — their consistency justified retention even in a poor season.Leadership clarity: Mooney’s experience as international captain ensures calm direction amid rebuild.Fresh domestic pool: Releasing most of the Indian unit frees purse space for dynamic young domestic talent.
XI shapes & strategic plans
Scenario Probable approach
Rebuild phase XI Gardner + Mooney lead a new line-up of uncapped Indians with auction-picked pacers. Balanced XI Use one overseas bowler and retain batting depth via Indian all-rounders. Power-hitting XI Target domestic hitters like Kiran Navgire-style finishers at auction to complement Gardner’s middle order.
Strengths
Top-order class: Mooney and Gardner cover most match phases.Financial freedom: Maximum purse available for fresh signings.Clear identity: A lean, purpose-driven core builds fresh momentum and culture.
Weaknesses & risks
Overseas dependence: Two-player core means injury to either star could derail season.Experience gap: Releasing veteran Indians creates leadership vacuum in local ranks.Chemistry reset: Full rebuild risks slow start to season until combinations settle.
Likely auction targets
Indian all-rounders who can bat in top 6 and bowl 2–3 overs.Death bowler specialist to support Gardner’s overs.Domestic captain candidate to share leadership burden with Mooney.Emerging spinners for Chepauk-style slow surfaces.
Final verdict
Gujarat Giants 2026 retention is a reset statement — two trusted overseas stars as anchors and a wide-open canvas for domestic reconstruction. If their auction strategy delivers the right mix of youth and specialists, this could be the start of a stronger era for the Giants.
Reference table
Player Role
Ashleigh Gardner All-rounder (✈ Australia) Beth Mooney Wicketkeeper-batter (✈ Australia)
This review focuses on strategic and tactical implications of Gujarat Giants’ retention choices. Actual impact will depend on auction recruitments and team composition ahead of WPL 2026.
