Heinrich Klaasen's SRH party over, other IPL teams go hunting

Former South Africa wicketkeeper-batter Heinrich Klaasen might be released by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) mini-auction. According to The Times of India, the franchise is considering letting go of the South African batter to free up funds for the upcoming auction.

Klaasen was retained by the Sunrisers for a hefty ₹23 crore ahead of the previous IPL season. The right-handed batter scored 487 runs in 14 matches at an average of 44.27 and an impressive strike rate of 172.70, including one century and one half-century. However, the team failed to reach the knockout stage.

SRH Consider Releasing Heinrich Klaasen Ahead of IPL 2026 Mini Auction

According to a report by The Times of India, SRH could make a strategic decision by releasing Heinrich Klaasen ahead of the auction. The move would free up ₹23 crore, giving the franchise greater flexibility to address key weaknesses, especially in their bowling and middle order.

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The report added that SRH could even attempt to buy Klaasen back at a lower price, potentially around ₹15 crore, which would still leave them with enough funds to strengthen other areas of their squad effectively.

"There are strong murmurs, and it could well be a smart move by SRH if they do that. Going into the auction with Rs 23 crore more allows them a reasonable shot to fill in the crucial gaps - assemble a penetrating bowling attack and get their middle-order act right."

"They can even have a fair shot at getting the South African back (for) around Rs 15 crore, and the balance can help them do some effective shopping," says an industry source tracking developments."

Heinrich Klaasen's Future with Sunrisers Hyderabad Uncertain

Heinrich Klaasen recently announced his retirement from international cricket. He might not be in Sunrisers Hyderabad’s plans despite his form in the IPL. The 34-year-old scored 105 off 39 balls against Kolkata Knight Riders in SRH’s final match of the 2025 season.

However, his lack of consistency throughout the campaign has raised questions over his retention. Klaasen was one of SRH’s most expensive signings, earning even more than skipper Pat Cummins’ ₹18 crore deal.

With the team finishing sixth in IPL 2025 after being runners-up the previous year, the management is reportedly considering releasing him to strengthen their auction purse. SRH may still look to buy Klaasen back at a lower price as part of their rebuilding strategy.

Heinrich Klaasen Remains Key Talking Point Ahead of Retention Deadline

Sunrisers Hyderabad signed Mohammed Shami (₹10 crore) and Harshal Patel (₹8 crore), but both failed to perform up to expectations. Shami struggled with fitness issues, while Harshal took 16 wickets in 13 matches but proved expensive, conceding close to 10 runs per over.

Another concern for Hyderabad has been their spin department. The franchise was reportedly dissatisfied with Rahul Chahar, who featured in just one match and underperformed in practice games. SRH relied on relatively unknown options such as Zeeshan Ansari and Harsh Dubey throughout the season.

Heinrich Klaasen remains a key talking point ahead of the retention deadline. Multiple franchises are said to be keeping significant funds aside in anticipation of bidding for the hard-hitting South African if he enters the auction pool.

Also read: RCB makes drastic changes to their setup including Head Coach