As the deadline for retention and trading in the Indian Premier League (IPL) approaches its close, there has been a notable uptick in activity, particularly in a trade between two southern franchises, SunRisers Hyderabad and Royal Challengers Bangalore. Amidst ongoing speculation about the anticipated trade of Hardik Pandya, As per Cricbuzz reports SRH has formally traded Mayank Dagar to RCB in exchange for Shahbaz Ahmed.

Mayank Dagar, a 27-year-old all-rounder from Delhi, was acquired by SunRisers Hyderabad for Rs 1.8 crore last year. In return, they have secured Shahbaz Ahmed, a 28-year-old left-handed all-rounder from Bengal, who was initially picked up by RCB in the 2022 auction for Rs 2.4 crore.

Dagar played three games for SRH in the previous season without making significant contributions, while Shahbaz, in an IPL career spanning 39 games, featured in 10 matches for RCB last season without notable success.

BCCI sources have indicated this trade, with an official announcement expected by Saturday night or Sunday morning.

Shahbaz Ahmed Joins SRH as Mayank Dagar Heads to RCB in Latest IPL Trade

In the meantime, speculation surrounds RCB’s potential exclusion of Wanindu Hasaranga and Harshal Patel for the upcoming season. However, this information remains unverified independently, and a source familiar with the matter has stated that a final decision has not been reached, emphasizing that the franchise will not respond to speculative reports.

Regarding SRH, limited information is available about its retention and releases. With a new coach, Daniel Vettori, the team’s planning may take a different direction. Speculation persists about the potential release of Harry Brook.

Some observers believe that, given England’s upcoming five Tests in India in February-March, the English batter may acclimatize to Indian conditions, rendering his role in the middle order valuable. Brook, acquired for Rs 13.25 crore, participated in 11 games last season, managing to score only 190 runs, including an unbeaten 100, translating to just 90 runs in the remaining 10 games.