IPL 2026 Auction: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), who were runners-up in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, endured a disappointing 2025 season, finishing sixth and spending a significant portion of the campaign near the bottom of the table.
Led by Pat Cummins, the team’s aggressive style, which saw them post multiple 250+ scores in 2024, faltered in 2025 due to inconsistent performances, especially from key batters and bowlers. With the IPL 2026 auction approaching, SRH are expected to make several changes to rebuild and bounce back for the Orange Army.
Here’s a detailed look at five players Sunrisers Hyderabad might release before the IPL 2026 auction:
Harshal Patel
Harshal Patel, acquired for Rs 8 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction, struggled to maintain consistency. Though he picked up 16 wickets in 13 matches, his economy rate of 9.80 was on the higher side for an experienced pacer. Notably, eight of his wickets came in just two matches, highlighting a lack of steady impact throughout the season. Given this, SRH might release him and possibly try to re-sign him at a lower price or opt for a promising youngster instead.
Rahul Chahar
Rahul Chahar featured in just one game in the 2025 season after being bought for INR 3.20 crore. SRH preferred to back fellow leg-spinner Zeeshan Ansari, who played 10 matches despite taking only six wickets. Another spinner, Harsh Dubey, also impressed with his left-arm orthodox spin, making it likely that Chahar will be released ahead of the mini auction.
Abhinav Manohar
The Karnataka batter was signed for INR 3.20 crore but managed only 61 runs in eight matches, with a disappointing average of 12.20 and a strike rate of 100. Manohar could be released but may boost his value with strong performances in domestic cricket. He is already part of Karnataka’s Ranji Trophy 2025-26 squad, where a good showing could bring him back into the spotlight.
Ishan Kishan
One of SRH’s biggest signings at INR 11.25 crore, Ishan Kishan had a mixed IPL 2025. He started with a spectacular unbeaten 106 off 47 balls against Rajasthan Royals but went through a lean patch before finishing strong with 94* off 48 balls against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Despite scoring 354 runs in 14 matches, his inconsistent form means it’s unlikely SRH will retain him. However, the franchise might consider re-signing him depending on team dynamics, especially with a proven opening pair of Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head.
Mohammed Shami
Mohammed Shami, signed for Rs 10 crore, struggled throughout the season, picking up just six wickets in nine matches with a costly economy rate of 11.23. He also recorded one of the worst bowling figures in IPL history – 0/75 in four overs against Punjab Kings. Having lost his spot in the Indian team, Shami is likely to be released by SRH ahead of the auction.
Looking Ahead
The Sunrisers Hyderabad franchise has some tough decisions to make to reclaim their top spot in the IPL. Their aggressive batting approach and potent bowling attack from 2024 needs rejuvenation after last season’s struggles. Releasing some of these underperforming players could free up crucial funds and spots to bring in fresh talent or rebuild the squad for IPL 2026.
Fans of the Orange Army will be watching closely as SRH strategize for the upcoming auction, hoping for a return to their dominant, high-scoring cricket.
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