3 teams who should target Heinrich Klaasen if SRH release him ahead of IPL 2026 Auction ft. CSK

SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) are likely to let go of Heinrich Klaasen ahead of the IPL 2026 Auction. As reported by The Times of India, Klaasen could be released and available to be picked by other teams.

Heinrich Klaasen was retained for a massive sum of ₹23 crore ahead of the 2025 season. His release could bring about a huge boost in SRH's purse for the upcoming auction. He had an impressive run, scoring 487 runs from 13 innings at an average of 44.27 and a strike-rate of 172.69 with an unbeaten century.

However, his performance may not have matched the expectations and a hefty price tag. SRH, who played the final in 2024, finished sixth in 2025. They could look to rebuild their squad with more balance by adding a huge sum to their purse.

Overall, Heinrich Klaasen has featured in 49 IPL matches so far. He has scored 1480 runs at an average of 40 and a strike-rate of 169.72 with two hundreds and seven half-centuries.

That said, here are three teams who should target Klaasen if SRH release him ahead of the IPL 2026 Auction.

#3 Gujarat Titans (GT)

Gujarat Titans (GT) relied heavily on their top three in IPL 2025. Sai Sudharsan, captain Shubman Gill, and Jos Buttler were their top scorers. Sudharsan scored 759 runs. Gill made 650 runs while Buttler scored 538.

However, their middle order failed to put up consistent performances. Sherfane Rutherford managed 291 runs from 11 innings while Shahrukh Khan scored 179. Rahul Tewatia struggled with just 99 runs from 12 innings.

Gujarat Titans are, therefore, in desperate need of someone like Heinrich Klaasen, who can bring the much-needed firepower to their middle order. They require a hard-hitter who can carry the momentum and finish the innings well.

#2 Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) would be on the lookout for a hard-hitting overseas wicketkeeper batter. Quinton de Kock played eight innings and scored just 152 runs, while Rahmanullah Gurbaz made 74 runs from five matches.

While both played as openers, KKR have options such as Ajinkya Rahane, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, and Sunil Narine who can open the batting. Heinrich Klaasen could fit in as their overseas wicketkeeper-batter who can strengthen their middle order.

Rinku Singh made 206 runs from 11 innings last season, while Andre Russell managed 167 runs from 10 innings. Klaasen could add to their arsenal and also help take some pressure off Rinku and Russell.

#1 Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) could be another franchise where Heinrich Klaasen would be a perfect fit. CSK struggled with their batting for most of IPL 2025. They lacked a reliable lower-order batter with the ability to play the big shots.

Veterans MS Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja were not as effective with the bat. Klaasen's aggressive batting and ability to finish the innings could prove to be crucial for CSK. Moreover, he is among the finest players of spin in the shorter format. Therefore, the conditions at their home ground in Chennai would not be a concern for him.

With no certainty on Dhoni's future in the IPL, Klaasen could also be a long-term wicketkeeper-batter option for them after the legend's exit.

Edited by Rishab Vm