In a major development ahead of the IPL 2026 retention deadline, senior Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami has been traded from Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). The deal, finalised just days before the November 15 cut-off, is an all-cash trade worth ₹10 crore, the same amount SRH had paid for Shami at the 2025 mega auction.
This move ends Shami short and underwhelming stint with SRH, where he managed only 6 wickets in 9 matches last season. Despite struggles in IPL 2025, his strong domestic comeback – including 15 wickets in three Ranji matches – has kept franchises interested, especially those needing an experienced Indian pacer.
No Player Swap – LSG Pay Full Amount in Cash
As per reports, this is a pure cash deal, with LSG not sending any player in exchange.
LSG had been actively searching for a reliable senior Indian pacer, with Avesh Khan, Mohsin Khan, and Mayank Yadav all dealing with recurring fitness concerns. This made Shami a high-value target as they prepare for IPL 2026.
The trade will be approved by the IPL governing council, but internal agreements between franchises are already completed. Once the official announcement is made, Shami will be part of the LSG squad for the 2026 season.
Why SRH Released Shami Before Auction
SRH paid a hefty ₹10 crore for Shami last season, banking on his brilliant 2022 and 2023 performances with Gujarat Titans. However, injuries and inconsistent rhythm affected his output in orange colours. His economy shot up to 11.23, forcing SRH to reconsider his role as they rebuild their squad for a stronger 2026 campaign.
Sources indicate SRH preferred an early cash inflow over waiting for the auction, especially with multiple overseas and domestic reshuffles in progress.
LSG desperately needed a senior strike bowler and now get Shami’s experience — 133 IPL wickets, powerplay mastery, and big-match temperament. He will also reunite with former India bowling coach Bharat Arun, now in LSG’s talent setup.
This pairing — Shami + Bharat Arun — was one of the main reasons behind Gujarat Titans’ early success, especially their title run in 2022.
One reference report revealed that former South African great Dale Steyn, who served as SRH’s bowling coach between 2021–24, had once “begged” SRH management to bring Shami into the squad, calling him one of the most impactful Indian pacers in modern cricket. Steyn expressed disappointment that SRH ended up letting him go before he regained full match fitness.
Shami IPL Career So Far
- Matches: 119
- Wickets: 133
- Average: 28.18
- Economy: 8.63
- Best seasons: 2022 & 2023 (48 wickets combined for Gujarat Titans)
- Previous teams: PBKS, DC, GT, SRH — now LSG
His addition is expected to bring both depth and experience to LSG’s bowling attack.
With the retention deadline almost here, more trades are expected across franchises. Shami’s move is one of the biggest so far, and it sets the tone for a high-drama IPL 2026 mini auction in mid-December.
