Wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan, who turns 27 on July 18, has received worrying news just before his birthday. After already being sidelined from the Indian cricket team, he now faces the possibility of being released by his IPL franchise, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), ahead of the IPL 2026 auction.

Despite County Success, Another Setback Looms

Recently, Ishan played county cricket in England for Nottinghamshire, impressing with half-centuries in both matches. He scored 87 runs against Yorkshire and 77 against Somerset, showing glimpses of form. However, that may not be enough to secure his IPL spot.

SRH May Release Ishan Kishan

In the IPL 2025 season, SRH bought Ishan for a whopping Rs 11.25 crore. While he began the season strongly with a century in the opening match, his form soon declined. Over 14 matches, he scored 354 runs in 13 innings at an average of 35.40, including one century and one fifty. However, the overall inconsistency has prompted management to consider releasing him.

Reports suggest that SRH may replace Ishan with all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer, currently with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). While no official confirmation has come yet, the move appears likely.

Out of Team India and BCCI Contract

Ishan has been out of Team India across all formats since December 2024, after opting out due to personal reasons. Since then, he has not been recalled and was excluded from the BCCI central contracts earlier this year—an additional blow to his international career prospects.

As of now, Ishan Kishan finds himself in a tough spot, facing uncertainty at both the domestic and international levels. While his recent county form offers hope, it remains to be seen whether franchises and selectors will see it as enough for a comeback.