Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) endured another inconsistent campaign in the IPL 2025 season, finishing sixth on the points table with six wins from 14 matches. While their batting lineup showed glimpses of brilliance, the bowling department remained a persistent issue throughout the tournament.
The 2016 champions, led by Pat Cummins, struggled to find balance and consistency, especially in defending totals on flat wickets. With the IPL 2026 auction approaching, SRH are likely to explore the trading window
to strengthen their squad and address key weaknesses. Here are three players whom SRH might consider trading before the next auction.
Here are 3 players whom SRH might trade before IPL 2026 auction:
Mohammed Shami
The veteran pacer Mohammed Shami could be one of the first players SRH might look to trade ahead of the 2026 season. Bought for a hefty sum of INR 10 crore, Shami was expected to bring experience and control to the pace attack. However, his performance fell short of expectations, as he picked up only six wickets in nine matches.
His economy rate was on the higher side, and he often struggled to provide early breakthroughs or maintain pressure in the death overs. Considering his age and injury concerns, SRH might prefer to trade Shami for a younger Indian pacer capable of delivering consistent spells.
Rahul Chahar
Another player who might be on the trading block is leg-spinner Rahul Chahar. SRH picked him up in the IPL 2025 mega auction but gave him limited opportunities. He featured in just one match throughout the season, failing to make an impact. The team management often preferred using young spinner Harsh Dubey and relied on overseas all-rounders to fill the spin slots.
With the emergence of promising local talents and the limited role for Chahar, it seems logical for SRH to trade him and acquire a domestic spinner who can grow with the team.
Ishan Kishan
A big-money signing Ishan Kishan was another underwhelming performer for SRH in IPL 2025. He was purchased for INR 11.25 crore, and the wicketkeeper-batter started the season with a bang, scoring a century in the opening match. However, he failed to maintain that form, finishing with 354 runs in 13 innings. His inconsistency and struggle to adapt to different match situations hurt SRH’s middle-order stability.
Given his high price tag and inconsistent returns, SRH might trade Kishan to free up funds and look for a more composed wicketkeeper-batter who can anchor the innings in the middle overs.
