SRH's Kavya Maran Eyes Major Changes Ahead of IPL 2026

Kavya Maran, owner of Sunrisers Hyderabad, is reportedly dissatisfied with the team's performance in IPL 2025 and is considering major changes for the upcoming season. Speculation arises from a viral video featuring new bowling coach Varun Aaron, who hinted at the potential release of players Mohammed Shami and Ishan Kishan. Both players had disappointing seasons, raising questions about their future with the team. As SRH prepares for IPL 2026, fans are eager to see how these changes will unfold.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 16, 2025, 12:05 IST

Kavya Maran's Disappointment with SRH's IPL 2025 Performance

Kavya Maran, the owner of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), is reportedly unhappy with the team's underwhelming performance in the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL). As a result, she is contemplating significant changes for the 2026 season, which may involve releasing two players valued at 21 crores.

The appointment of former Indian fast bowler Varun Aaron as the new bowling coach has sparked speculation about these potential changes. An old video featuring Aaron has gone viral, where he discusses the possibility of releasing fast bowler Mohammed Shami and wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan ahead of the IPL 2026 auction.

Old Video Causes Stir

Both Mohammed Shami and Ishan Kishan had disappointing seasons in IPL 2025. Kishan was acquired for 11.25 crores, while Shami was bought for 10 crores. However, their performances fell short of expectations, leading to rumors that they might be released before the upcoming auction.

These speculations were fueled by Varun Aaron's comments in a previously recorded video, where he expressed his views as a cricket analyst. The video gained traction after Aaron's recent appointment as SRH's bowling coach.

What Varun Aaron Suggested

During a segment on ESPN Cricinfo, Varun Aaron stated that he believes Mohammed Shami will be released for IPL 2026 due to his declining fitness and nearing the end of his career. He also suggested that Ishan Kishan should be let go, as both players could be acquired at a lower price during the auction.

Mohammed Shami's Struggles in IPL 2025

Mohammed Shami, who was signed for 10 crores, struggled throughout the season, managing only six wickets in nine matches with an average of 56.16 and an economy rate of 11.23. Notably, he had a particularly poor outing against Punjab Kings, conceding 75 runs in four overs, marking one of the worst bowling performances in IPL history.

Ishan Kishan's Inconsistent Performance

Ishan Kishan, playing for SRH for the first time, started strong with a century in his debut match. However, he faced challenges throughout the season, finishing with 354 runs at an average of 35.40 over 14 matches, which included one century and one half-century.