Key Highlights:
In a development that could impact Gujarat Titans’ overseas depth going forward in IPL 2025, Glenn Phillips, the dynamic New Zealand all-rounder, has left the squad after sustaining a groin injury. The 28-year-old has returned to New Zealand and is unlikely to participate further this season.
The injury is believed to have occurred during Gujarat’s away match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 6, although Phillips had not featured in any game for the franchise this season.
Titans Confirm Exit, Wish Phillips a Speedy Recovery
Following early reports from Cricbuzz, Gujarat Titans officially confirmed the news with a brief statement:
“Glenn Phillips has returned to New Zealand following a groin injury he sustained during the match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 6. Gujarat Titans wish Glenn a speedy recovery.”
The exact nature and severity of the groin strain remain undisclosed. Phillips is understood to be undergoing further assessment by New Zealand Cricket medical staff upon his return.
Injury and Availability Woes Mount for Gujarat
Phillips becomes the second overseas player from Gujarat Titans to exit the tournament. Earlier, Kagiso Rabada left the team for a personal emergency in South Africa and has yet to rejoin the squad.
As of April 12, the Titans’ overseas roster is down to five available players:
- Jos Buttler
- Rashid Khan
- Sherfane Rutherford
- Gerald Coetzee
- Karim Janat
Each IPL franchise is allowed a maximum of eight foreign players. With two unavailable and no replacement announced yet, Gujarat may consider seeking an emergency signing or rely more heavily on Indian domestic depth.
A Missed Opportunity for Phillips
Phillips was signed at his base price of ₹2 crore during the auction, following a standout performance in the Champions Trophy, where New Zealand finished runners-up to India. His agility and athleticism were on display during the tournament, particularly for his fielding efforts in Pakistan and Dubai.
The injury comes as a blow not just to Gujarat but also to Phillips, who was hoping for more IPL exposure after intermittent appearances for Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad in past editions.
Gujarat Titans’ Current Status
Despite losing Glenn Phillips and having Rabada unavailable, Gujarat Titans have had a strong campaign so far. They sit comfortably at the top of the IPL 2025 points table, with:
- Matches Played: 5
- Wins: 4
- Loss: 1 (vs PBKS in the season opener)
- Winning Streak: 4 consecutive victories against MI, RCB, SRH, and RR
Captain Shubman Gill has been praised for leading a well-balanced side that’s managed to perform under pressure, especially with critical contributions from B Sai Sudharsan, Rashid Khan, and Gerald Coetzee.
What Next for Gujarat Titans?
With an away clash scheduled against Lucknow Super Giants on April 12 afternoon, the Titans must decide whether to proceed with the existing squad or seek replacements. There has been no official word from the franchise regarding any replacement signing for Glenn Phillips as of Saturday morning.
Gujarat’s current overseas mix, however, still offers depth — with Rashid Khan as the lead spinner, Coetzee and Rutherford as finishers, and Buttler anchoring the top order. If Rabada rejoins soon, Gujarat’s overseas dynamics could stabilize again.
Final Word
Glenn Phillips’ exit marks a second setback in the Gujarat Titans’ overseas lineup, but the defending champions appear to have the bench strength to absorb the blow. As the tournament progresses, how the franchise manages its foreign player pool could play a pivotal role in sustaining momentum in the league stage.
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