Senior pacer Mohammed Shami was retained by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) for IPL 2026 auctions as he had multiple trade offers, including one of about ₹10 crore, which were turned down amid worries about his form and fitness.

Shami, acquired for ₹10 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction, endured a difficult season marked by injuries and inconsistency. He featured in just nine matches, picking up six wickets at an economy rate of 11.23 — a far cry from his match-winning performances in previous years.

SRH Stand Firm on Shami Retention

According to a Cricbuzz report, SRH turned down several trade offers for the 36-year-old fast bowler. The management, led by captain Pat Cummins, remains confident that Shami’s experience and leadership will be valuable assets in the upcoming season. With Indian seamers Harshal Patel and Jaydev Unadkat already in the mix, SRH appear keen to maintain a balanced pace attack built on experience.

“Despite receiving multiple trade offers, the franchise believes Shami’s experience and mentoring ability are vital to the squad’s long-term plans,” sources told Cricbuzz.

Shami’s Experience Keeps Him in the Mix

In 2025 season, it did not go too well compared to the great 2024 campaign, in which he won the Purple Cap with 28 wickets. However, in the 119 matches Shami has played so far in the IPL, he has claimed 133 wickets and continues to be one of India’s most seasoned T20 bowling performers.

Given the glimpses of better days on the domestic circuit earlier this year, SRH are hopeful that in IPL 2026, Shami might be back in full rhythm.

A Calculated Gamble by SRH

By choosing to retain Shami despite form and injury concerns, SRH have made a bold statement of faith in experience over current form. The move could either prove to be a masterstroke — if Shami regains his touch — or a high-risk decision that tests the franchise’s patience in a results-driven T20 format.