Irfan Pathan believes Mohammad Shami will return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) with renewed vigor following a series of omissions. The veteran seamer’s future with the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) is uncertain ahead of the retention deadline on November 15. Shami was acquired by SRH for INR 10 crore in the 2025 mega auction but had a disappointing stint, taking only six wickets in nine matches at an average of 56.17 and an economy of 11.20.
Since the IPL campaign, Shami has struggled to regain his form and was overlooked by Indian selectors for the 2025-26 Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. Although he has performed well for Bengal in the domestic circuit, he remains off the Test cricket radar. According to Irfan Pathan, Shami’s recent setbacks will motivate him to make a significant impact in the upcoming season. Pathan suggests that SRH or any other franchise can capitalize on Shami’s hunger to prove himself, stating that he will “come with a lot of vengeance.”
Pathan also commented on the Gujarat Titans’ (GT) need for a better overseas bowler, citing Gerald Coetzee’s underwhelming performance in IPL 2025. Coetzee conceded 21 runs in one over during the Eliminator against the Mumbai Indians and finished with figures of 0-51 off three overs. Pathan questioned whether GT could find a more effective bowler to perform well in the death overs.
In other IPL news, Pathan discussed the Punjab Kings’ (PBKS) retention strategy ahead of the deadline. He believes the team does not require significant changes, having reached the finals last season. However, Pathan noted that Australian players Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell, who cost a combined INR 15.20 crore, have not justified their price tags. Despite this, he expects PBKS to retain them due to their Australian coach’s preference for players from the same country. Pathan suggested that PBKS should focus on acquiring an Indian fast bowler and a backup spinner to support Chahal.
As the IPL 2026 season approaches, teams are preparing for the retention deadline and upcoming auctions. The fate of players like Shami, Stoinis, and Maxwell will be decided in the coming days, and their performances will be closely watched in the next season. With the IPL predicting to be as competitive as ever, fans can expect exciting matches and surprising moves from their favorite teams.