Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) underwent a significant squad overhaul ahead of IPL 2026 auction as part of owner Kavya Maran’s vision to rebuild the team for sustained success. The retention choices emphasize restructuring while focusing on core strengths and strategic auction flexibility.

SRH retain core players for IPL 2026

SRH retained a compact but effective core including skipper Pat Cummins, accomplished Indian all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, T20 specialist Harshal Patel and Sri Lankan pace sensation Eshan Malinga. These retentions provide leadership, skill balance and a strong bowling attack foundation, crucial for SRH’s competitive aspirations.

The franchise made some bold calls by releasing seasoned campaigners including Adam Zampa, Mohammed Shami (traded to Lucknow Super Giants), and South Africa all-rounder Wiaan Mulder. This move aimed to free up a sizeable purse and reallocate resources towards younger, high-potential talent. Additionally, the decision to trade Shami reflects a long-term team planning approach, potentially increasing auction firepower.

SRH’s plan for IPL 2026 auction

SRH enters the IPL 2026 auction with a moderate purse balance, offering them enough flexibility to bid aggressively for promising domestic talent and suitable overseas options. Their goal is to balance experience and youth, fixing gaps identified in IPL 2025 through strategic auction purchases.

Also READ: IPL 2026 Retentions – Kavya Maran’s SRH react after trading Mohammed Shami to Lucknow Super Giants

Sunrisers Hyderabad: Retention, Release, Trade and Purse

Players released: Abhinav Manohar, Atharva Taide, Sachin Baby, Wiaan Mulder, Simarjeet Singh, Rahul Chahar, Adam Zampa, Mohammed Shami (traded to Lucknow Super Giants)

Players retained: Pat Cummins (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Heinrich Klaasen (wicket-keeper), Travis Head, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Harshal Patel, Jaydev Unadkat, Aniket Verma, Kamindu Mendis, Eshan Malinga, Brydon Carse, Harsh Dubey, Smaran Ravichandran, Zeeshan Ansari

Purse remaining: INR 25.5 cr

Slots remaining: 10 (2 overseas)

Also READ: Kolkata Knight Riders: Full List of KKR Retentions, Releases, Remaining Slots & Purse | IPL 2026 Auction