5 players Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) can target in the IPL 2026 auction

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IPL 2026 auction is expected to trigger another round of squad reshaping as franchises look to plug tactical gaps ahead of a fresh title push. For Sunrisers Hyderabad, whose last two seasons have exposed issues in death bowling and middle-overs control despite a powerful top order, this auction is a chance to rebuild their attack around younger, multi-dimensional talents. With a decent purse and several slots to fill, SRH can afford to be bold in targeting impact players who address specific shortcomings rather than just adding depth.

1. Cameron Green

Cameron Green is the kind of multi-dimensional overseas signing who can change the structure of SRH’s XI overnight. A powerful top-order batter capable of operating at No. 3 or No. 4, Green brings a proven record of high strike-rate run scoring in the IPL along with the ability to bowl two to three overs of heavy seam-up pace. His presence would give SRH flexibility to keep an aggressive opener-heavy approach while still having a stabilizing middle-order presence who can also finish innings. With the ball, he can be used as a matchup option against right-handers or as a sixth bowler, which is vital for a side that has often looked one-dimensional once their frontline attack goes off the boil.

2. Matheesha Pathirana

Matheesha Pathirana directly answers SRH’s most visible problem in recent seasons: death-overs leakage. The Sri Lankan quick has already built a reputation as one of the best end-overs specialists in the league, using his slingy action, accurate yorkers and sharp slower balls to suffocate batting sides in overs 16–20. For a team that has repeatedly conceded big finishes despite starting well with the ball, Pathirana offers not just wickets at the back end but also psychological control over chasing teams who know they must take risks against him. Slotting him into the attack would allow SRH to plan their pace resources around a designated closer, easing pressure on the rest of the seam unit.

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3. Ravi Bishnoi

Ravi Bishnoi would give SRH something they have missed badly: a genuine attacking Indian wrist-spinner who can control and strike in the middle overs. Bishnoi has built his T20 reputation on aggressive lines, sharp googlies and the ability to keep batters guessing while maintaining a respectable economy in phases where teams usually accelerate. SRH’s spin attack has often lacked bite, forcing them to over-bowl pacers on flat decks and leaving them exposed when conditions do not help seam. By bringing in Bishnoi, they get a middle-overs enforcer who can target opposition anchors, break partnerships and create scoreboard pressure that complements their fast-bowling plans.

4. Akash Deep

Akash Deep is an ideal domestic pace option for SRH to reinforce the powerplay and early middle overs. He has already shown in the IPL that he can swing the new ball, hit good hard lengths and pick wickets up front, which are traits SRH have sometimes missed outside their frontline stars. A reliable Indian seamer also gives the franchise crucial squad balance, ensuring they do not have to burn an overseas slot on a support pacer. With the right backing, Akash can become SRH’s go-to Indian quick who shares the new ball, allowing the team to rotate their premium overseas bowlers according to conditions and opposition.

5. Auqib Nabi

Auqib Nabi represents a smart, future-facing investment from the domestic circuit. The Jammu & Kashmir pacer has consistently impressed with his ability to hit the right lengths, generate movement and sustain pressure in both red- and white-ball cricket. For SRH, Nabi offers a low-cost, high-upside option who can initially be groomed as a squad seamer and gradually eased into first-choice contention. His skill set suits Indian conditions: he can swing it early, bowl disciplined spells through the middle and adapt to different roles as he gains experience. For a franchise that needs to build a stronger Indian pace core for the long term, Nabi fits the profile of a shrewd auction pick.

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