Shami at the centre of three-way tug ahead of IPL 2026

Mohammed Shami is at the centre of a three-way dynamic ahead of the 2026 IPL season, with interest from multiple franchises for the veteran pacer. There is a chance he will be traded, with SunRisers Hyderabad weighing options on how to use the prevailing demand.

The 35-year-old pacer is being sought by Lucknow Super Giants, with Delhi Capitals also showing keen interest. It remains to be seen how SRH management handles the situation.

If the transaction goes through, it would likely be a one-way trade for cash, though a release into the auction pool is also possible.

Shami was bought by SRH for Rs 10 crore at the last mega auction, but had modest returns last season—just six wickets at an average of 56.17 and an economy of 11.23. He has taken 133 wickets in 119 IPL games overall, with 48 of those coming in two stellar seasons for Gujarat Titans in 2022 and 2023. He missed the entire IPL 2024 due to injury.

Delhi Capitals' interest in Shami is reflected in Sourav Ganguly's recent comments: "I'm sure the selectors are watching and there is communication between Mohammad Shami and the selectors. But if you ask me, in terms of fitness and skill, it's the Mohammad Shami we know of. So, I really don't see any reason why he can't keep playing Test matches, one-day cricket and T20 cricket for India. Because that skill is enormous."

Shami has not played an international match since the Champions Trophy final in March this year, and his fitness status has been a topic of discussion. He has since proved his fitness in first-class matches for Bengal, taking 15 wickets in the last three Ranji games.