Possible player trades between MI and SRH before IPL 2026 mini-auction

IPL teams show interest in Ishan Kishan [Source: AFP]

With the IPL 2026 mini-auction fast approaching, teams have started preparing to make bold moves in the trade window. This period allows franchises to swap or buy players before the main auction, helping them fix weak spots or offload those who didn’t perform as expected. The Mumbai Indians (MI) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), two teams with contrasting seasons, are now exploring possible trades to fine-tune their squads for the upcoming season.

For both MI and SRH, the main goal during the trade window is balance. Mumbai struggled with a shaky middle order and inconsistent bowling, while Hyderabad lacked stability in their pace attack and lower-order hitting. 

Let’s take a closer look at the possible player trades between these two franchises and how they could benefit each side.

Ishan Kishan

One of the biggest names making headlines ahead of the auction is Ishan Kishan. Reports suggest that Mumbai Indians are showing serious interest in bringing back their former wicketkeeper-batsman through an all-cash deal. Kishan, who was part of MI from 2018 to 2024, was released before the IPL 2025 mega auction due to retention limitations. He was then picked up by Sunrisers Hyderabad, where he started strong with a century against RR and a 94-run knock against RCB. Despite these performances, his overall season was inconsistent, and SRH might now release him ahead of the mini-auction.

[Ishan Kishan's performance for MI]

For MI, re-signing Ishan Kishan makes perfect sense. The wicket-keeper batter knows the franchise inside out, having played seven seasons under their setup. His attacking batting style, energy behind the stumps, and familiarity with MI’s dressing-room culture make him an ideal fit for a comeback. 

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For MI, he has scored over 2300 runs at a healthy strike rate of 136.85 and remains one of the most dynamic young players in Indian cricket. Notably, if SRH agrees to a cash-only trade, Mumbai would regain a proven opener and wicketkeeper, while Hyderabad would free up funds to invest in other areas.

Nitish Kumar Reddy for Deepak Chahar

Another potential trade that could grab attention is between Nitish Kumar Reddy of SRH and Deepak Chahar of MI. This swap could serve both teams well, as they address key weaknesses in their line-ups.

Nitish Reddy, who was retained by SRH for ₹6 crore, had an underwhelming 2025 season. He managed only 182 runs in 11 innings and picked up just two wickets. However, his potential as a power-hitting all-rounder is undeniable, and Mumbai, who lack depth in the middle order, might find him a valuable addition. His youth and aggressive batting style could provide MI with the spark they missed last season.

[Mohammed Shami and Deepak Chahar's powerplay comparison in IPL 2025]

On the other hand, SRH desperately needs a reliable new-ball bowler. Mohammed Shami had a poor outing last season, taking just six wickets in nine matches with an economy rate of over 11. Deepak Chahar, who has built a reputation as a powerplay specialist, could be the perfect solution. In IPL 2025, he took eight wickets in 14 games at an economy of 8.67 and brings with him the experience of nearly 100 IPL matches. 

A Reddy-for-Chahar trade would thus help both teams, MI strengthening their batting core and SRH improving their pace attack.

Mujeeb ur Rahman for Rahul Chahar

Mumbai Indians could also consider trading Afghanistan spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman for Indian leg-spinner Rahul Chahar. Mujeeb joined MI for ₹2 crore in IPL 2025 but got to play only one match, where he took a single wicket. MI might prefer a more experienced Indian spinner, and Rahul Chahar fits that requirement perfectly.

[Rahul Chahar's Performances for MI]

Chahar, currently with SRH, had a forgettable season but has plenty of experience, including a successful stint with MI earlier in his career. During his time with Mumbai, he claimed 41 wickets in 39 matches and played a key role in their title-winning runs. Notably, bringing him back could give MI a dependable spin option alongside Karn Sharma, who currently lacks strong backup. 

For SRH, meanwhile, Mujeeb’s mystery spin could add variety to their bowling attack, especially on slower tracks.

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