Irfan Pathan believes Mohammad Shami will return to the Indian Premier League with renewed vigor after a series of omissions. The veteran seamer’s future with Sunrisers Hyderabad is uncertain ahead of the retention deadline on 15 November. Shami was bought 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 that IPL campaign, he has struggled to regain 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 radar. According to Pathan, these setbacks will motivate Shami to make a significant impact in the upcoming season, and any franchise—SRH or otherwise—can capitalize on his hunger to prove himself, as he will “come with a lot of vengeance.”
Pathan also commented on the Gujarat Titans’ 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 for the death overs.
In other IPL news, Pathan discussed the Punjab Kings’ retention strategy ahead of the deadline. He believes the team does not require major changes after reaching the finals last season, but notes that Australian players Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell—costing 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 PBKS should focus on acquiring an Indian fast bowler and a backup spinner to support Yuzvendra 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 next season. With the IPL predicted to be as competitive as ever, fans can expect exciting matches and surprising moves from their favourite teams.
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