Hyderabad: In a move that instantly set the cricket world talking, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have released veteran pacer Mohammed Shami ahead of the IPL 2026 mega auction. The franchise shared a farewell graphic on social platforms with the caption: “Your memories in 🧡 will forever be cherished ✨. Thank you, Shami.”
Why this matters: ₹10 crore purse freed
By releasing Shami, SRH have reportedly freed up ₹10 crore from their auction purse — a significant war-chest boost ahead of the 2026 auction. That extra liquidity changes SRH’s auction profile from conservative to aggressive, giving them room to target multiple premium buys or a heavy single marquee purchase.
What SRH can do with the extra purse
- Rebuild the pace attack: Target young Indian fast bowling talent and a premium overseas pacer.
- Balance the squad: Buy one high-impact allrounder plus a specialist spinner or finisher.
- Strategic bids: Use fresh purse to win bidding contests for a player SRH believes fits their core strategy.
Mohammed Shami — auction bait or shock buy?
Shami’s IPL resume is strong: experience, death-over skills and big-game temperament. Released players of his caliber typically spark a fierce bidding war. Expect several franchises to monitor him closely — teams that need immediate pace experience could bid aggressively, and pundits predict Shami will be one of the most sought-after bowlers in the 2026 pool.
Fans reaction: heartbreak, nostalgia and calculation
SRH supporters reacted with mixed emotions: gratitude for Shami’s contributions and disappointment at the split. The club’s farewell graphic and message have been widely shared, with many fans thanking Shami for match-winning spells and leadership. Others immediately shifted to auction talk — which franchises will chase him, and how SRH will reinvest the ₹10 crore?
What this signals about SRH strategy
Releasing a senior, proven pacer suggests SRH are thinking long-term. Possible signals include:
- Prioritising younger, explosive pace options for the next decade.
- Pivoting funds toward batting depth or flexible multi-format allrounders.
- Managing workload and injury risk by rotating senior pacers rather than relying on one name.
Who could target Shami at auction?
Franchises that need a reliable death bowler and experience might lead the chase. Expect strong interest from teams who value seasoned seamers — particularly those with close finishes and title aspirations. The auction market will decide whether Shami’s value is driven by immediate need or long-term leadership worth.
Bottom line
Sunrisers Hyderabad’s decision to release Mohammed Shami is bold and calculated. The ₹10 crore purse boost hands SRH a strategic advantage at the IPL 2026 auction and opens multiple pathways for rebuilding. For Shami, the auction is the next test — and it could turn into a bidding war that reshapes the fast-bowling market next season.
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Quick facts
- Player released: Mohammed Shami
- Franchise: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
- Purse freed: ₹10,00,00,000 (approx)
- Next step: Mohammed Shami enters IPL 2026 Mega Auction pool
