IPL 2026 Twist: Mumbai Indians in Talks with SRH Duo

For only a few inches, the Mumbai Indians (MI) missed the opportunity to play the final of IPL 2025. The IPL 2025 season was a mixture of setbacks and comebacks for the five-time IPL-winning franchise. Ahead of the new Indian Premier League season (IPL 2026), the Mumbai Indians have been working hard to strengthen their squad and build a balanced team capable of claiming a record sixth IPL title.

With the IPL 2026 auction approaching, the franchise is expected to target multiple proven talents from Indian cricket to improve team performance and depth. According to recent reports, the Mumbai Indians have shown strong interest in two key Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) players Nitish Kumar Reddy and Ishan Kishan.

Both cricketers are believed to be on MI’s radar as the management looks to bolster its middle order and all-round options before the upcoming IPL mini auction.

However, as of now, the possibility of these high-profile trades seems uncertain. Sources suggest that Sunrisers Hyderabad are reluctant to release Nitish Kumar Reddy, considering him a long-term investment and a valuable young all-rounder for the future. The same applies to Ishan Kishan, whose explosive batting and wicketkeeping skills make him a crucial player in SRH’s lineup.

Still, with Mumbai Indians’ history of making bold moves during transfer windows, the situation could change quickly. Fans are eagerly waiting to see whether MI can pull off these potential trades and build a stronger squad for the IPL 2026 campaign.

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IPL 2026 Rumors: Mumbai Indians Heavily Linked with SRH Duo

During the previous IPL season, the wicketkeeper-batter announced his arrival in the cash-rich Indian Premier League with a blistering century. However, his form remained inconsistent throughout the tournament.

Since IPL 2025, Ishan Kishan has shown significant improvement, scoring heavily in domestic cricket and regaining his rhythm ahead of the IPL 2026 season. His aggressive batting style and experience make him one of the most sought-after players in the upcoming IPL 2026 auction.

Speculations suggest that several IPL franchises have shown strong interest in acquiring the left-handed opener. Apart from the Mumbai Indians, teams like Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) could also join the race to secure his services. Ishan Kishan’s versatility as a top-order batter and reliable wicketkeeper adds immense value to any team aiming for balance and firepower.

As the IPL 2026 auction approaches, Sunrisers Hyderabad will have to make a crucial decision about his future in the franchise. Whether they choose to retain him or allow a trade could significantly impact their lineup. For now, nothing has been finalized, but the growing transfer rumors around Ishan Kishan continue to fuel excitement among fans and analysts ahead of the new IPL season.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Are Mumbai Indians planning to sign Ishan Kishan for IPL 2026?
Reports suggest that Mumbai Indians have shown strong interest in acquiring Ishan Kishan ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. However, Sunrisers Hyderabad has not made any official decision about releasing the wicketkeeper-batter yet.

2. Which Sunrisers Hyderabad players are Mumbai Indians targeting?
According to sources, Mumbai Indians are eyeing two key SRH players, Nitish Kumar Reddy and Ishan Kishan. Both players are on MI’s radar as the team looks to strengthen its squad for IPL 2026.

3. Will Sunrisers Hyderabad release Nitish Kumar Reddy before IPL 2026?
As of now, it seems unlikely. SRH reportedly wants to retain Nitish Kumar Reddy, viewing him as a long-term all-rounder and a crucial part of their future plans in the Indian Premier League.

4. Are other IPL franchises interested in Ishan Kishan?
Yes, apart from Mumbai Indians, other franchises like Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) are also rumored to be interested in signing Ishan Kishan for IPL 2026, given his form and experience.

5. When will the IPL 2026 mini auction take place?
The official date for the IPL 2026 mini auction has not been announced yet. However, it is expected to take place a few months before the new season, where teams will finalize their squads and possible trades.