Srinagar: After an impressive runner-up finish in IPL 2024, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) endured a disappointing campaign in IPL 2025, finishing sixth under Pat Cummins’ leadership. The franchise’s inconsistency and underwhelming performances from key players cost them a playoff spot.
As the IPL 2026 auction approaches, SRH management may look to release a few big names to increase their auction purse and rebuild a more balanced squad for next season.
Here’s a look at five players SRH might release before the IPL 2026 auction:
- Mohammed Shami (₹10 Crore)
Sunrisers Hyderabad spent ₹10 crore to sign Mohammed Shami at the IPL 2025 auction, but the veteran pacer failed to deliver. He managed only 6 wickets in 9 matches with an economy rate of 11.23, struggling to contain runs in the death overs.
Given his age, form, and high salary, SRH may decide to release Shami to create room for younger, in-form bowlers in the 2026 squad.
Career stats: 133 wickets in 119 IPL matches, economy 8.63.
- Ishan Kishan (₹11.40 Crore)
SRH made a bold move by signing Ishan Kishan for a massive ₹11.40 crore in the IPL 2025 Mega Auction. The wicketkeeper-batter started the season with a century against Rajasthan Royals but couldn’t maintain consistency thereafter, finishing with 354 runs in 14 matches.
Considering his price tag and inconsistent returns, Kishan’s future with SRH looks uncertain ahead of the 2026 auction.
Career stats: 2998 runs in 119 IPL matches, average 29.10, strike rate 137.64.
- Heinrich Klaasen (₹23 Crore Retained)
South African power-hitter Heinrich Klaasen was retained by SRH for a whopping ₹23 crore before IPL 2025. While he scored 487 runs in 14 matches, his performances fell short of the explosive standards he set in IPL 2024.
Given his massive salary and diminishing impact, SRH could consider releasing Klaasen to free up significant funds for other overseas stars in IPL 2026.
Career stats: 1480 runs in 49 matches, average 40.00, strike rate 169.72.
- Rahul Chahar (₹3.20 Crore)
Leg-spinner Rahul Chahar was bought by SRH for ₹3.20 crore in the IPL 2025 auction but featured in just one match, bowling only one over. His limited game time reflects the management’s lack of confidence in him.
Given his salary and minimal involvement, SRH may part ways with Chahar to reallocate funds toward a more dependable spin option.
Career stats: 75 wickets in 79 IPL matches, economy 7.72.
- Simarjeet Singh (₹1.50 Crore)
Delhi pacer Simarjeet Singh joined SRH for ₹1.50 crore but had a forgettable IPL 2025, taking just 2 wickets in 4 matches with an economy rate of 14.10. His inability to handle pressure in key moments could lead SRH to release him before the 2026 auction.
Career stats: 11 wickets in 14 matches, economy 10.00.
SRH’s Strategy for IPL 2026
With Pat Cummins expected to continue as captain, SRH will likely focus on revamping their bowling attack and adding impactful finishers. Releasing high-priced underperformers like Klaasen, Kishan, and Shami would give them a substantial boost in their auction purse, helping them target fresh talent for the 2026 season.
Fans can expect major shake-ups as the Hyderabad franchise prepares for another title push in IPL 2026.
