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South African Star Joins Gujarat Titans Mid-IPL
17 Apr
Summary
- Connor Esterhuizen makes IPL debut for Gujarat Titans.
- Tom Banton ruled out of IPL 2026 due to finger injury.
- Esterhuizen signs for Gujarat Titans for ₹75 lakh.

Tom Banton has been officially ruled out of the remainder of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. The English player sustained a finger injury during a training session, forcing his withdrawal from the tournament. Banton was a key player for the Gujarat Titans, who had acquired him for ₹2 crore, expecting him to strengthen their batting lineup.
In his place, the Gujarat Titans have signed South African cricketer Connor Esterhuizen. This will be the 24-year-old's debut appearance in the IPL. Esterhuizen, who made his international debut for South Africa in March 2026 and has played five T20Is, joins the Titans for a sum of ₹75 lakh. His arrival is expected to add new dynamics to the team's strategy as the season progresses.