Reports: Mohammed Shami emerges as top DC, LSG trade target ahead of IPL 2026 auction

Mohammed Shami did not have a memorable outing for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). After being roped in at the mega-auction for INR 10 crore, the right-arm pacer picked up only six wickets from nine matches at an average of 56.17 and an economy rate of 11.23.

However, he had just made a comeback from injury and struggled to find his rhythm, which is very important for fast bowlers. Teams know exactly how valuable a player he can be, and that is why Sunrisers Hyderabad are receiving offers to have him on board ahead of IPL 2026.

As per a report by Cricbuzz, the veteran India pacer has attracted serious interest from both the Delhi Capitals (DC) and the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), making him one of the most sought-after names ahead of next season.

Now, SRH will be pondering whether to trade the pacer away in an all-cash deal or release him into the auction pool.

Shami has been one of the best bowlers in IPL in the last few years. He bagged 48 wickets in 33 matches for Gujarat Titans in two seasons (2022 and 2023). In IPL 2023, he won the Purple Cap for the first time in his career, bagging 28 wickets at an average of 18.64.

Delhi Capitals rely heavily on Mitchell Starc as far as the seam-bowling department is concerned. The likes of Mukesh Kumar and Dushmantha Chameera failed to live up to their reputation. On the other hand, T Natarajan played just one game. If DC can acquire Shami's services, it will make them one of the most formidable bowling line-ups in the tournament, with talented spinners like Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Vipraj Nigam already in their ranks.

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Meanwhile, Lucknow Super Giants struggled with an all-Indian bowling attack last season. The likes of Akash Deep, Avesh Khan, Prince Yadav, and others failed to impress. They have already traded Shardul Thakur to Mumbai Indians. Having someone like Shami will help them a lot as he not only brings world-class bowling to the Rishabh Pant-led side but he will also be able to guide the younger pacers with his experience.