New Delhi, Nov 17 (NationPress) Former Indian leg-spinner Amit Mishra has described the transfer of experienced fast bowler Mohammed Shami from Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on the day of IPL 2026 retentions as an unexpected decision.

Mishra also referred to the three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) decision to include Andre Russell in the auction pool as a ‘high-risk’ choice ahead of the auction set for December 16 in Abu Dhabi.

During the previous IPL mega auction in Jeddah, Shami was acquired by SRH for INR 10 crore. However, his performance in IPL 2025 was underwhelming, achieving only six wickets with an average of 56.17 and an economy rate of 11.23, significantly lower than his career averages of 28.19 and 8.63.

"Shami is a key wicket-taker for any team, especially in Hyderabad, where conditions favor good bowlers. Releasing Andre Russell is also surprising; it's a risky move since his auction price is uncertain," Mishra stated in an exclusive interview with IANS.

"Hyderabad has pitches that yield around 250 runs, necessitating a wicket-taker like Shami who can perform under pressure. All teams, especially LSG, will need impactful all-rounders like Russell in the auction," he elaborated.

Shami's international career includes 64 Tests, 108 ODIs, and 25 T20Is for India, and he was part of the 2025 Champions Trophy winning squad in the UAE. He will reunite with bowling coach Bharat Arun at LSG, who previously guided him in the Indian team from 2014 to 2021, helping Shami solidify his position in the successful Indian bowling lineup.

Mishra highlighted Shami's wicket-taking skills, particularly in the powerplay overs, which could be crucial during LSG’s home games at the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. "Lucknow's acquisition of Shami is because they recognize his ability to secure early wickets – his skills are invaluable,” he remarked.

Moreover, Mishra commended LSG's choice to retain young bowler Mayank Yadav, despite his ongoing injury concerns, including back surgery earlier this year in Christchurch, New Zealand. He emphasized the importance of managing Yadav's fitness for sustained performance.

"Yadav is young, and his fitness upon his return is paramount. During my time with LSG, he faced multiple injuries after limited game time. Retaining him shows the team's confidence in his abilities, and he must focus on staying injury-free," Mishra advised.

When questioned about LSG’s decision to release leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi, who had a disappointing IPL 2025 after being retained for INR 11 crore, Mishra suggested it could be a strategic financial maneuver to re-sign him at a lower price in the auction.

"This could be a smart move. If they aim to bring him back, it would be for a more affordable price, allowing them to allocate funds towards other players for the upcoming season," he explained.

Mishra also noted the trend of franchises releasing high-profile players has become more prevalent in recent years, allowing teams to potentially re-acquire them at lower costs.

"This practice began a few years ago, as franchises seek to replace underperforming players. Teams will likely attempt to sign players like Andre Russell at a more budget-friendly price," he stated.

On the potential dominance of franchises in the forthcoming mini auction, Mishra highlighted the financial strength of teams like KKR and Chennai Super Kings, which have substantial auction purses of INR 64.3 crore and INR 43.4 crore respectively.

"Typically, the teams with deeper pockets will have the upper hand during the auction. They possess the flexibility to outbid other franchises for players, but unpredictability remains a factor," he observed.

Looking forward to his future involvement in IPL 2026 after concluding his playing career with 166 wickets in 154 matches, Mishra expressed an interest in identifying and nurturing spin bowling talent.

"I’m open to all opportunities, especially in identifying players who could represent India and excel in the IPL. I aim to find 4-5 spinners who can contribute to the national team. If given the chance, I would love to prepare spinners for the IPL," he concluded.

"In the past, we had fewer options; now that we do, it's crucial for players to have clarity in their thoughts. I’d like to guide them on their skills and mindset, especially in adapting to various formats of the game," he added.