Aniket Verma, the rising star of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in IPL 2025, has captured the attention of cricket fans and experts alike with his explosive batting style.
His journey to the IPL is not just a tale of talent but also one of resilience and inspiration, particularly influenced by Hardik Pandya’s own story of overcoming adversity.
Early Life and Challenges
Born on February 5, 2002, in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, Aniket faced significant challenges early in life.
He lost his mother at the tender age of three and was raised by his uncle, Amit Verma, who became his primary support system.
Despite financial hardships, Amit ensured that Aniket received proper cricket training, driving him daily to Ankur Cricket Academy in Bhopal, where he honed his skills under the guidance of coach Jyotiprakash Tyagi.
Rise in Domestic Cricket
Aniket’s cricketing prowess began to shine through in domestic tournaments.
He gained recognition during the Madhya Pradesh Premier League (MPPL) 2024, where he emerged as the leading run-scorer with 273 runs in six matches, including a remarkable 123 runs off just 41 balls.
His aggressive batting style and ability to hit sixes made him a standout performer, catching the eye of IPL scouts.
His performances led to a trial with SRH ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction. Aniket impressed during high-pressure simulations and was subsequently signed for ₹30 lakh.
Inspired by Hardik Pandya
Aniket Verma’s journey parallels that of Hardik Pandya, who also faced numerous challenges before making it big in cricket.
Pandya’s story of resilience and determination serves as an inspiration for young cricketers like Aniket.
The ‘Maggi’ story — where Pandya famously recounted how he would eat instant noodles while training hard to make it as a cricketer — resonates with Aniket’s own experiences of perseverance amid adversity.
Verma has spoken about how stories like Pandya’s motivate him to push through difficulties and strive for excellence. He often reflects on the importance of hard work and dedication, traits that are essential for success in competitive sports.
Impact in IPL 2025
In IPL 2025, Aniket has already made a significant impact. He scored a blistering 36 runs off just 13 balls against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).
Then in the next match he scored impressive 74 runs off 41 balls against Delhi Capitals (DC), showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
His innings helped SRH recover from precarious situations, proving his worth as a key player for the team.
