Sat Nov 23 17:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Shahbaz Ahmed’s Century Leaves Sunrisers Hyderabad Regretting Release Decision Ahead of IPL 2025 Mega Auction

**Jeddah, Saudi Arabia** – Just hours before the IPL 2025 mega auction kicks off in Jeddah on November 24th and 25th, Indian all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmed has delivered a stunning performance, scoring a breathtaking century. His explosive innings is likely leaving Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) with significant buyer’s remorse, having released him before the auction.

Ahmed, 29, smashed an unbeaten 100 off just 49 balls for Bengal against Punjab in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. His innings, featuring six fours and seven sixes, boasted a strike rate exceeding 200. He also contributed a wicket with the ball, leading Bengal to a four-wicket victory.

SRH’s decision to release Ahmed before the auction now seems questionable. While their retention list includes key players like Kane Williamson, this century will undoubtedly attract significant interest from other franchises, potentially earning him a hefty contract.

Ahmed has a substantial IPL record, having played 55 matches, scoring 536 runs and taking 21 wickets for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and SRH. In IPL 2024 alone, he played 16 matches for SRH, scoring 215 runs (including one fifty) at a strike rate of 129.52 and taking 7 wickets. His recent explosive form dramatically increases his market value ahead of the auction.

Read More