SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) could be set to make a massive release ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. According to a report by The Times of India, the franchise is likely to release former South African batsman Heinrich Klaasen.
SRH had retained Klaasen for a whopping ₹23 crore before the 2025 season, making him the costliest retention. However, he could not deliver as expected and failed to justify the massive price tag. The right-hander also retired from international cricket to focus on T20 franchise leagues across the globe.
By releasing Klaasen ahead of the upcoming auction, SRH could significantly increase their purse. Having finished sixth in IPL 2025, this move could provide them with more financial flexibility to add strength to their squad. The franchise aims to make a strong comeback after having played the final in 2024. They could even look to get Klaasen back at a lesser price during the auction.
“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,” a source was quoted as saying.
The report further added that several franchises have their eyes set on Klaasen and could look to pursue him if he enters the auction pool.
### Klaasen’s IPL Journey
Heinrich Klaasen first played in the IPL for the Rajasthan Royals (RR) during the 2018 season. He then represented Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in 2019. After a considerable gap, the right-hander returned to the league in 2023, being signed by SRH.
In his first season with Hyderabad, Klaasen scored 448 runs from 12 games. The next season, he amassed 479 runs from 16 matches. During the 2025 edition, Klaasen made 487 runs from 13 innings at an impressive average of 44.27 and a strike rate of 172.69. He also struck an unbeaten hundred and a half-century.
While his performance last season was certainly not bad, it may not have been enough to justify the huge price tag he commanded.
### Overall IPL Performance
To date, Klaasen has played 49 matches in the IPL, scoring a total of 1,480 runs with two centuries and seven half-centuries to his name.
As SRH prepares for the 2026 auction, releasing Klaasen could provide the franchise with more flexibility to restructure their squad and address critical areas ahead of the new season.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/cricket/news-srh-release-2025-s-expensive-retention-ahead-ipl-2026-auction-reports
