Shahrukh Khan, the Tamil Nadu all-rounder, has expressed his contentment with his decision to stay with the Gujarat Titans (GT) franchise ahead of the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Khan, who was retained by GT for ₹4 crore, has found a sense of belonging and support within the team.
“A lot of people have said GT is a really good place to play cricket and I got to experience it last year. The feeling of home that they give is immense. Honestly, I haven’t found it anywhere else,” Khan told The Hindu after Tamil Nadu’s victory over Railways in a Ranji Trophy match.
Khan’s decision to stay with GT was largely influenced by the camaraderie he shares with head coach Ashish Nehra. “Everybody knows what sort of a character Nehra is. He has a big heart and he is compassionate about the players and around the set-up. That was the reason behind sticking with GT because of the trust that they showed in me,” Khan said.
Khan’s batting prowess has been recognized by GT, who have given him opportunities to bat up the order. In the 2024 IPL season, Khan scored a half-century against Royal Challengers Bangalore when he was sent in at No. 4.
“GT made me bat up the order against RCB. I wasn’t sure about it. I knew that I could bat up the order but I really wasn’t ready to go at No. 4 and play. But when they sent me, it was a new role and I understood they valued me. They know what sort of a person I am… So, it is better to stick to the team,” Khan said.
Khan’s recent performance in the Ranji Trophy, where he scored an 86-ball 114 as an opener, further highlights his versatility and adaptability. “The idea was Bala anna’s (Balaji). He asked me to go and take on the fast bowlers. I like the ball coming fast because I’m good against the pacers. So, it was his idea completely. Nobody expected it… I don’t know what he saw, but whatever he saw clicked for us in this match.”
Khan’s commitment to GT and his belief in the team’s culture and support system suggest that he will continue to be a valuable asset for the franchise in the upcoming IPL seasons.
