A sensational rumor is sweeping cricket circles: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are preparing a record-shattering bid to land Pakistan’s batting maestro Babar Azam in the IPL 2026 mega auction, a move that could make him the highest-paid player in IPL history — and break long-standing financial records!
Sources close to the SRH camp claim the franchise’s owners have greenlit a plan to spend up to ₹50 crore on Babar, dwarfing Sam Curran’s ₹24.75 crore deal in 2023 and doubling the IPL’s previous salary benchmarks. Insiders believe SRH sees Babar as the face of a complete franchise reboot, with plans to build a new era around the prolific right-hander, who remains one of the world’s most consistent T20 batsmen.
A senior IPL insider revealed:
“SRH wants a megastar to attract global audiences and revive their brand. Babar Azam ticks every box. They’re ready to throw unprecedented money at him.”
While Pakistani players have historically been absent from the IPL due to political tensions, recent murmurs suggest BCCI and PCB officials are exploring a thaw in relations that could open the door for Pakistani stars in IPL 2026 — and Babar would top every franchise’s wishlist.
Social media has exploded at the mere possibility, with hashtags like #BabarInIPL, #SRHRecordDeal, and #IPL2026 trending across India and Pakistan. Millions of fans are excited at the prospect of Babar showcasing his class in the world’s biggest T20 league, while others remain skeptical about whether the political climate will allow it.
Former players have weighed in, with ex-India star Irfan Pathan saying:
“Babar Azam playing in the IPL would be incredible for cricket. He’s a world-class player, and a ₹50 crore bid shows just how big the league has become.”
Meanwhile, rival franchises are reportedly alarmed at the possibility of SRH securing Babar, fearing it could tilt the balance of power in IPL 2026 overnight. Analysts predict TV ratings, sponsorships, and global reach could skyrocket if Babar signs, making him one of the most lucrative additions in IPL history.
The big question remains: Will BCCI clear the way for Babar Azam’s IPL debut, and can SRH truly pull off the richest contract the league has ever seen?
One thing’s for sure — if it happens, IPL 2026 will never be the same again!