Former India left-arm pacer Irfan Pathan has backed Gujarat Titans’ (GT) decision to invest heavily in West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder, saying the franchise has shown “immense faith” in the veteran’s improved batting—particularly his six-hitting ability—alongside his proven new-ball bowling skills. Holder was snapped up for Rs 7 crore at the IPL 2026 mega auction in Abu Dhabi after a fierce bidding war with Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

“His six-hitting abilities have improved”

Speaking on JioStar, Pathan highlighted Holder’s evolution as a lower-order finisher, noting that his ability to clear the boundary consistently has made him a more complete all-rounder in T20 cricket.

“Their bet on Jason Holder is interesting. He is an amazing bowler with the new ball, but his batting has improved, especially his six-hitting abilities. GT has put a lot of faith in that,” Pathan said.

Holder has been a familiar face in the IPL, having previously represented Chennai Super Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Kolkata Knight Riders, Lucknow Super Giants, and Rajasthan Royals. His experience across multiple franchises, combined with his ability to contribute in multiple roles, makes him a valuable asset for GT as they look to reclaim the title they won in 2022.

GT’s top-heavy batting and the role of all-rounders

Pathan also emphasized that GT’s strength lies in their top three batters—captain Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan, and Jos Buttler—and that the franchise’s strategy revolves around maximizing their output while ensuring the middle and lower order can finish innings effectively.

“Their main strength is their top three batters: Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan, and Jos Buttler. How they use Washington Sundar will be important, as his batting has gotten better, too. The role of Glenn Phillips, or whoever plays at number four or five, will also be very big,” Pathan added.

GT’s preference for left-arm pacers and finishers

Former India opener Abhinav Mukund explained GT’s strategic preference for left-arm pacers and finishing all-rounders like Holder, noting that the franchise has consistently backed fast bowlers who can provide variety in their attack.

“Gujarat Titans love fast bowlers, especially left-arm pacers like Prithviraj Yarra and Luke Wood. Ashok Sharma had a great Syed Mushtaq Ali season. But Jason Holder is there because they need someone to bat and finish innings at number six or seven, and bowl a couple of overs. They want someone to finish at the death,” Mukund said on JioStar.

Mukund also pointed out that GT’s top-heavy batting lineup gives them the flexibility to deploy overseas players strategically, with Holder likely to slot in as a finisher when Glenn Phillips is deployed higher up the order.

“The team is so strong at the top that they felt they needed this. Last year, GT often did not play all four overseas players. So maybe if Glenn Phillips is fit, he plays in the middle order, and Jason Holder finishes. Overall, they still look like a brilliant side. They have the best young Indian talent. I don’t know who will control them on the bench. Good luck to Parthiv Patel and Ashish Nehra,” Mukund concluded.

Holder’s IPL pedigree and GT’s title ambitions

Jason Holder brings a wealth of experience to GT, having played 88 IPL matches and taken 84 wickets at an economy rate of 8.52, while also contributing handy runs in the lower middle order. His ability to bowl in the powerplay and at the death, combined with his improved batting, makes him a valuable asset in GT’s quest to add a second IPL title to their 2022 triumph.

With a strong core of Indian talent, including emerging stars and established names, GT will be among the favorites heading into IPL 2026. Holder’s presence adds depth and balance to a squad already brimming with talent.