Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) heads into the IPL 2026 auction on December 16 in Abu Dhabi with a clear strategy to address squad gaps and build on their performance from the previous season. After a mixed season in 2025, where they finished sixth, the team is determined to strengthen its squad for a more consistent performance in the upcoming edition.

Squad Analysis and Key Gaps

SRH has retained 15 players, including 6 overseas players, spending ₹99.50 crore from their total purse. Key retentions include captain Pat Cummins, explosive opener Travis Head, and power-hitter Heinrich Klaasen. The core also comprises talented Indian players like Abhishek Sharma and Nitish Kumar Reddy.

However, several releases and trades have created specific gaps that SRH will be keen to fill at the auction. The most notable is the trade of Mohammed Shami to Lucknow Super Giants, leaving a void in the pace bowling attack. The release of Adam Zampa and Rahul Chahar has also weakened the spin department, making the acquisition of quality spinners a priority. Additionally, the team may look to add depth to their middle-order batting and secure a backup wicket-keeping option.

Purse and Available Slots

SRH enters the auction with a remaining purse of ₹25.50 crore, the third-highest among all teams. They have 10 available slots to fill, including a maximum of two overseas players. This provides them with the flexibility to target specific players to address their needs.

Possible Targets

Given their requirements, SRH is expected to target players in the following categories:

• Pace Bowler: Replacing Mohammed Shami is a critical task. With limited domestic options available, SRH might target overseas pacers known for their death-bowling skills. Matheesha Pathirana, who was previously with Chennai Super Kings, is rumored to be a key target. Other potential options include Anrich Nortje and Matt Henry.

• Spin Bowler: Strengthening the spin attack is another priority. Ravi Bishnoi is a highly sought-after Indian leg-spinner who could attract a significant bid from SRH. Mujeeb Ur Rahman is another overseas option that SRH could consider.

• Middle-Order Batsman/All-Rounder: To add stability and firepower to the middle order, SRH might consider players like Venkatesh Iyer. David Miller could provide an explosive option at number five or six. Other all-round options include Cameron Green and Wanindu Hasaranga.

• Indian Fast Bowler: To support the core pace attack, SRH may also target Indian fast bowlers such as Akash Deep, Shivam Mavi, Mohit Sharma, Kuldeep Sen or Darshan Nalkande.

Auction Strategy

SRH's auction strategy will likely revolve around securing key players to fill the identified gaps while maintaining a balanced squad. They may be willing to spend a significant portion of their purse on high-impact players like Pathirana or Bishnoi. They will also need to be smart in targeting value picks to fill the remaining slots, ensuring they have adequate backup options in all departments.

With a clear focus on strengthening their bowling attack and adding depth to their batting, Sunrisers Hyderabad will aim to make strategic acquisitions at the IPL 2026 auction to build a formidable squad capable of competing for the title.