IPL 2025: Gujarat Titans name Dasun Shanaka as replacement for Glenn Philips

New Delhi, April 17 (IANS) The Gujarat Titans (GT) have announced the return of Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka as a replacement for New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips, who has been ruled out of the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 due to injury.

Shanaka, who was previously part of the GT setup in IPL 2023, has rejoined the franchise for Rs 75 lakh. Although his previous stint was a modest one — featuring in just three matches with 26 runs and no opportunities with the ball — the 32-year-old brings valuable international experience and recent form into a side that has had its fair share of inconsistency this season.

This will be Shanaka’s second stint in the IPL, both with the Gujarat Titans. His previous outing in 2023 saw limited returns and limited game time under Hardik Pandya’s leadership. However, Shanaka will be hoping for a more prominent role this time under new captain Shubman Gill, especially given the need for more balance and experience in the Titans' middle order.

Glenn Phillips, who was picked up by GT for Rs 2 crore during the auction, didn’t get a single outing in the IPL 2025 campaign before being sidelined due to injury. Despite his reputation as a powerful striker and a useful bowling option, the New Zealander remained benched throughout the season with Sherfane Rutherford preferred in the playing XI. Phillips did, however, frequently feature as a substitute fielder during the early games.

Shanaka enters the IPL on the back of a solid run in franchise and domestic cricket. He recently played for the Dubai Capitals in the International League T20 (ILT20), helping his side clinch the title. In 10 innings, he scored 164 runs at an average of 27, while also picking up four wickets. His all-round contributions were vital in the Capitals’ campaign and displayed his ability to deliver under pressure in T20 competitions.

Following his ILT20 campaign, Shanaka also took part in Sri Lanka’s domestic red-ball competitions, featuring in the National Super League 4-day tournament for Dambulla and the Major League Tournament for Sinhalese Sports Club.

--IANS

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