New Delhi, Dec 16 (NationPress) The assistant coach of Gujarat Titans (GT), Parthiv Patel, expressed his delight at acquiring uncapped fast bowlers Ashok Sharma and Prithvi Raj Yarra during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 Auction held in Abu Dhabi. He stated that both players enhance the team's fast-bowling capabilities in distinctive manners.

Ashok Sharma leads the wicket-takers list in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy with 22 wickets from ten matches for Rajasthan, while Yarra has secured 12 wickets in nine games for Andhra. Their addition to GT’s roster complements an already impressive lineup of fast bowlers, including Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Ishant Sharma, and Kagiso Rabada.

“From what we observed, Ashok Sharma’s performance among the uncapped Indian pace bowlers was remarkable. His wicket-taking ability in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy caught our attention,” Patel commented during the post-auction press conference in response to an IANS question.

“We aimed to integrate a young, uncapped fast bowler into our team. Hence, we are thrilled to have Ashok on board. Similarly, Prithvi Raj Yarra has a solid background in first-class cricket, despite an injury setback. His current form, especially his unique left-arm bowling style, impressed us significantly.”

GT's marquee acquisition at the auction was Jason Holder, the West Indies fast-bowling all-rounder, who will compete with Glenn Phillips for a spot in the starting eleven. GT pursued Holder aggressively and secured him for Rs 7 crore after a competitive bidding war with Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

Patel indicated that Holder was their primary target throughout the auction process, stressing that the team’s tactical approach required an experienced all-rounder, making Holder a fitting choice.

“We have been monitoring Jason Holder for the past 1.5 years. His T20 performance has been exceptional across various leagues. GT consistently seeks experienced players, and Holder's extensive experience makes him an invaluable asset,” he added.

The inclusion of England's Luke Wood for Rs 75 lakh further strengthened GT’s overseas pace attack, especially after missing out on Australian pacer Ben Dwarshuis. “We required a left-arm seamer capable of swinging the ball, and both players fit that requirement. The dynamics of the auction influenced our choices,” Patel explained.

“Ultimately, our need for a left-arm seamer led us to pursue Luke Wood after acquiring Kagiso Rabada, who is a right-arm seamer, alongside our other right-arm fast bowlers,” Patel concluded.