With the IPL 2026 mini-auction fast approaching, the trade window has already created major buzz. One of the biggest names in the spotlight is veteran Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami, who could be on his way out of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). As per multiple reports, Delhi Capitals (DC) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have expressed strong interest in acquiring the 35-year-old pacer ahead of the upcoming season.
Shami on SRH’s Trade Radar
According to reports from Cricbuzz, SRH have received trade offers for Shami, and discussions are underway to decide the best course of action. The Hyderabad franchise, owned by Kavya Maran, may opt for an all-cash trade deal – meaning no player swap will take place. Instead, SRH could utilize the funds from this transaction to strengthen their squad during the IPL 2026 mini-auction.
Shami was purchased by SRH for ₹10 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction, but his performance last season was below expectations – taking only 6 wickets in 9 matches at an economy rate above 11. His dip in form, coupled with recent fitness issues, has prompted SRH to reconsider their bowling setup.
DC and LSG Lead the Race
Both Delhi Capitals and Lucknow Super Giants are looking to bolster their fast-bowling departments. DC’s pace attack struggled with injuries last season, with players like Avesh Khan, Mohsin Khan, and Mayank Yadav missing key games. Shami’s experience and wicket-taking ability make him an ideal addition to their lineup alongside Jasprit Bumrah and Mukesh Kumar.
For LSG, the situation is similar. Despite having a strong all-round unit, the team lacked an experienced Indian pacer to lead their attack. Shami’s proven record in powerplay and death overs could provide the stability they need going into the next season.
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Shami IPL Performer
Shami has been a consistent performer throughout his IPL career. Since making his debut in 2013, he has played 119 matches, picking up 133 wickets at an average of 28.19 and an economy rate of 8.63. His most dominant phase came during his stint with Gujarat Titans, where he was instrumental in their 2022 IPL title win and picked up 48 wickets across two seasons (2022–2023).
However, injuries and workload management have affected his consistency since then. He missed IPL 2024 entirely due to an ankle injury and has yet to return to international cricket this year despite proving his fitness in domestic matches for Bengal.
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If the deal goes through, Shami’s trade could become one of the most high-profile moves of IPL 2026. A cash-only transaction appears to be the most likely outcome, as SRH seeks to rebuild with younger pace options while freeing up purse space.
For fans, the prospect of seeing Shami donning a Delhi Capitals or Lucknow Super Giants jersey adds a new layer of excitement ahead of the upcoming IPL season. With the retention deadline set for November 15, an official announcement on this trade could arrive anytime soon.
