IPL 2026 Retentions: Kavya Maran’s SRH react after trading Mohammed Shami to Lucknow Super Giants

Kavya Maran’s Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have reacted to the high-profile trade deal involving veteran Indian pacer Mohammed Shami, who is set to move to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) ahead of IPL 2026. This trade marks a significant shift in SRH’s squad strategy under Maran’s ownership as they look to revamp their team after a mixed performance in IPL 2025.

SRH’s strategic decision to trade Mohammed Shami

Shami, who was one of SRH’s most expensive buy in IPL 2025 at INR 10 crore, had a challenging season, taking only six wickets in nine matches with an economy rate exceeding 11. Despite his struggle in form and impact during the last IPL season, Shami has shown encouraging signs of a resurgence in domestic cricket, particularly with impressive performances in the ongoing Ranji Trophy. However, SRH’s management decided to trade him to LSG, likely to free up funds and squad slots for an impactful rebuilding ahead of IPL 2026.

Reacting to the trade, SRH wrote: “Your memories in Orange jersey will forever be cherished. Thank you,
@MdShami11.”

Your memories in 🧡 will forever be cherished ✨

Thank you, 🫡

— SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers)

Also READ: IPL 2026 Trade – Sanju Samson moves to CSK; Ravindra Jadeja, Sam Curran shift to Rajasthan Royals

LSG’s interest in Shami and the trade deal

Lucknow Super Giants have acquired Shami to bolster their pace attack. The trade was all cash deal at INR 10 crore without any player exchange, allowing SRH to gather a significant purse share to utilize in the IPL 2026 auction.

Despite the trade, Shami remains one of the most experienced and potent fast bowlers in IPL history with over 130 wickets. His strong domestic form hints at a possible return to IPL prominence with LSG.

Tezi bhi, Junoon bhi, ab Shami bhai pe LSG ka rang bhi 🩵

— Lucknow Super Giants (@LucknowIPL)

Kavya Maran’s vision for Sunrisers Hyderabad

Under Kavya Maran’s stewardship, SRH appears focused on restructuring the team with a balanced mix of young talent and experienced players. The trade shows Maran’s willingness to make tough calls by parting ways with expensive, underperforming assets to strengthen and recalibrate the squad dynamically. Emphasis on acquiring new players in the auction complements this approach aimed at improving overall team efficiency and competitiveness in IPL 2026.

Also READ: Preity Zinta’s Punjab Kings part ways with Glenn Maxwell ahead of IPL 2026 auction