As the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) prepare for the IPL 2025 season, they find themselves at a critical juncture.
After finishing as runners-up in the previous season, expectations are high, but several concerns could hinder their performance.
Here are three major issues that SRH must address as they head into the new tournament.
1. Lack of Lower-Order Batters
One of the most glaring weaknesses for SRH heading into IPL 2025 is their lack of reliable lower-order batters.
The team previously relied on players like Shahbaz Ahmad and Abdul Samad to anchor the lower middle order, but both have moved to other franchises ahead of this season.
- Current Situation: With Pat Cummins potentially batting as high as No. 7, followed by two fast bowlers and two spinners, SRH lacks experienced finishers who can handle pressure situations late in innings.
- Limited Options: The available players, such as Atharva Taide and Sachin Baby, are not accustomed to batting outside the top six, which raises concerns about their ability to perform under pressure. This lack of depth could lead to collapses if the top order fails to deliver.
2. Uncertainty with Ishan Kishan’s Role
The signing of Ishan Kishan has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.
While Kishan is undoubtedly a talented player, his fit within the SRH lineup is questionable.
- Positioning Issues: Kishan is primarily known for his aggressive batting at the top of the order, but SRH already has established openers in Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma. This creates a logjam at the top and limits Kishan’s effectiveness.
- Performance Concerns: Last season, Kishan struggled with an average of just 13.50 and a strike rate of 120.89, particularly during middle overs. His inclusion could make the batting lineup one-dimensional, with multiple left-handed batsmen occupying key positions.
3. Bowling Attack Imbalance
While SRH has made some key additions to their bowling lineup, including Pat Cummins and Rahul Chahar, there are significant concerns regarding balance and effectiveness.
- Powerplay and Death Overs: The team lacks specialists for both powerplay and death overs, which could lead to ineffective bowling during critical phases of matches. Mohammed Shami’s fitness will be crucial as he navigates a long season following his performances in international cricket.
- Reliance on Spinners: With Adam Zampa and Chahar leading the spin department, there is uncertainty about how well they can perform under pressure against strong batting lineups. The absence of a solid finger spinner further complicates matters.
