Sunrisers Hyderabad have brought back T. Natarajan in a player trade with Delhi Capitals, with leg-spinner Zeeshan Ansari heading to the Delhi-based franchise ahead of the next Indian Premier League (IPL) season.
Natarajan, who was acquired by DC for Rs 10.75 crore at the IPL 2025 player auction, will return to SRH at a revised fee of Rs 5 crore. Ansari, meanwhile, will join DC at his existing fee of Rs 40 lakh, adding another spin option to their bowling attack.
The trade could prove beneficial for both franchises, with SRH addressing their need for experience in the death overs and DC strengthening their spin-bowling resources.
NATARAJAN RETURNS TO SRH
Natarajan represented SRH for five seasons between 2020 and 2024, establishing himself as a dependable left-arm fast bowler known for his yorkers and ability to deliver under pressure.
His most productive IPL campaign came in 2024, when he claimed 19 wickets, the most by any SRH bowler that season. His performances played an important role in the team’s run to the final, where they eventually finished as runners-up.
However, injuries have disrupted Natarajan’s progress in recent years, affecting his availability and limiting his opportunities to build consistency across IPL campaigns. His return to SRH offers the franchise an opportunity to reunite with a bowler familiar with its setup and conditions.
The revised fee of Rs 5 crore is significantly lower than the Rs 10.75 crore DC paid for him at the 2025 auction. SRH will hope that the experienced pacer can rediscover his best form and provide greater control during the closing stages of an innings.
ANSARI ADDS SPIN DEPTH
Ansari moves to DC after representing SRH in 10 matches during IPL 2025. The 26-year-old leg-spinner made an immediate impression on his IPL debut against Delhi Capitals, claiming three wickets in the contest.
He has taken six wickets in 10 IPL appearances so far and will look to build on that promising start with his new franchise.
At Rs 40 lakh, Ansari represents a relatively low-cost addition for DC, who will be keen to develop his potential and strengthen their options in the middle overs. His ability to provide a leg-spin option could offer the team greater flexibility when planning its bowling combinations.
A TRADE THAT BENEFITS BOTH
On paper, the exchange addresses different needs for the two franchises. SRH gain an experienced Indian pacer with a proven record in high-pressure situations, particularly at the death, while DC bring in a young leg-spinner with IPL experience.
Natarajan’s fitness and availability will be key to determining the value of SRH’s investment. For DC, Ansari’s development and ability to deliver consistently at the highest level will shape the success of the move.
Ultimately, the trade gives both teams an opportunity to address specific bowling requirements ahead of the next IPL season.
– Ends
