Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have been known for their fearsome batting lineup, featuring stars like Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, Heinrich Klassen, and Ishan
Kishan. However, the team could not replicate the consistency it showed in IPL 2024, and this led to them missing out on the playoffs in the recent edition.
Ahead of IPL 2026, SRH will look to regroup, strengthen key areas, and assemble a balanced squad capable of challenging for the title. Here let us take a look at five players they could target in the upcoming mini-auction.
Here are 5 players Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) might target at IPL 2026 auction
Auqib Khan
Jammu & Kashmir pacer Auqib Khan is one player SRH could prioritise in the IPL 2026 mini-auction. The fast bowler has impressed in the domestic circuit, claiming 28 wickets in T20s. He also delivered some impactful spells in the Ranji Trophy, which has brought him into the selectors’ spotlight. Auqib could be an excellent replacement for Harshal Patel, offering both pace and variations, while also gaining experience on the big stage.
Murugan Ashwin
Tamil Nadu leg-spinner Murugan Ashwin is another potential target. Having played for five IPL franchises over the years, Ashwin has picked up 35 wickets in his IPL career. With Rahul Chahar struggling for form and game time in IPL 2025, Ashwin’s experience could help SRH strengthen their middle-over spin department. He can work alongside young spinner Harsh Dubey, creating pressure and providing control in crucial phases of the game.
Salman Nizar
Kerala batter Salman Nizar has been consistently impressive across domestic formats. In T20s alone, he has scored 450 runs, while performing even better in other formats. With Abhinav Manohar failing to deliver in IPL 2025, Nizar could be a reliable addition to SRH’s top or middle order. His ability to anchor innings and accelerate when needed would give Hyderabad the stability they lacked in recent matches.
Mayank Agarwal
Mayank Agarwal brings experience and versatility to the table. Having played IPL since 2011 for multiple franchises, Agarwal has amassed 2756 runs in 125 innings, including one century and 13 fifties. He can bat at different positions at the top and adjust his game according to match situations. SRH could target Agarwal as a replacement for Ishan Kishan, who struggled for consistency throughout IPL 2025, except for a strong start against Rajasthan Royals.
Atit Sheth
Baroda pacer Atit Sheth is another exciting prospect for SRH. He has claimed 89 wickets in 62 domestic matches, consistently outperforming his peers with pace and swing. At 29, Sheth has the potential to be a valuable addition, possibly replacing Mohammed Shami, who struggled for rhythm in IPL 2025. With proper guidance and mentoring, SRH could mold Sheth into a key strike bowler for their campaign.
