Kavya Maran’s SEC Signs Rising Star Allah Ghazanfar from Mumbai Indians after IPL 2025

Last week marked the end of the 18th IPL season, and the teams have entered the off-season. Their rosters will inevitably change ahead of the 19th tournament. One of the latest developments is the departure of Afghan right-arm off-spinner Allah Ghazanfar from the Mumbai Indians (MI). The promising player’s new team will be Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SEC).

A Strategic Move by Kavya Maran

Team owner Kavya Maran decided to sign Ghazanfar to the SEC. This acquisition is expected to bolster Sunrisers Eastern Cape’s squad ahead of the SA20 2025-26 season, which is set to begin later this year or early 2026.

Ghazanfar’s T20 Record

Despite missing out on IPL 2025 due to an injury, Ghazanfar has an impressive T20 record. He took 34 wickets in 21 clashes at an average of 13.64. His performances for MI Emirates in the ILT20 have also caught the eye, and he is now poised to make a similar impact in South Africa.

SEC’s Rivalry with MI

Sunrisers Eastern Cape, under Maran’s ownership, has already established a strong winning culture in the SA20. It won the trophy twice and finished as runners-up in the previous season to MI Cape Town, owned by Nita Ambani. With Ghazanfar’s addition, SEC aims to reclaim the top spot.

SRH’s IPL Performance

On the IPL front, Maran’s Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) had a mixed season. After reaching the finals in 2024, they finished 6th in 2025. They missed the playoffs despite a late surge that included three consecutive wins. Alas, with strategic moves like the acquisition of Ghazanfar for the SA20, the Sunrisers brand is showing a clear commitment to bouncing back stronger across different leagues.