As the IPL 2025 approaches, cricket enthusiasts are not just discussing which batsman might wear the Orange Cap but are equally intrigued by who will clinch the Purple Cap, symbolizing the tournament’s leading wicket-taker. For Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), two names stand out prominently in this context: Pat Cummins and Mohammed Shami. Both players, known for their bowling acumen and match-winning capabilities, have been pivotal in SRH’s strategies, and their performances could very well define the team’s success this season.
Pat Cummins:
Pat Cummins, acquired by SRH for a staggering INR 18 crore, brings with him not just raw pace but also the experience of leading Australia in Test cricket. His ability to swing the new ball, combined with his knack for bowling yorkers in the death overs, makes him a nightmare for batsmen. Cummins’ IPL record, though somewhat under the radar due to his limited participation, shows promise. In the 2024 IPL season, leading SRH to the finals, he showcased his versatility by picking up crucial wickets at key moments. His economy rate, often below 7, underlines his control over proceedings, making him not just a wicket-taker but a momentum-shifter. With SRH’s strategy likely revolving around him, Cummins could be the linchpin in their bowling attack, potentially leading the Purple Cap race with his consistent wicket-taking ability.
Mohammed Shami:
Mohammed Shami, acquired for INR 10 crore, adds a different dimension to SRH’s bowling. Known for his impeccable line and length, Shami’s ability to swing the ball both ways has often left batsmen puzzled. His performances in domestic cricket, especially in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he showed signs of returning to his best, suggest that Shami is back in lethal form. His experience in IPL, where he has often been among the top wicket-takers, combined with his recent form, positions him as a strong contender for the Purple Cap. Shami’s role might be more pronounced in the middle overs, where his control and wicket-taking ability could strangle the opposition, making him invaluable in SRH’s quest for the title.
The combination of Cummins and Shami not only provides SRH with a formidable pace attack but also strategic flexibility. While Cummins might be used more in the powerplay and death overs, Shami’s skills could be pivotal in the middle, ensuring that the opposition never feels comfortable. This synergy, backed by a supportive spin attack, could see SRH’s bowlers dominating the opposition, with Cummins and Shami leading the charge.
As IPL 2025 unfolds, the battle for the Purple Cap might just be as thrilling as the race for the Orange Cap. For SRH, the investment in Cummins and Shami isn’t just about wickets but about setting the tone for their campaign. Their performances will be crucial, not just in terms of wickets but in how they manage to restrict the scoring rate, providing their batsmen with manageable totals to chase or defend. Whether it’s Cummins with his express pace or Shami with his guile, SRH fans have much to look forward to, with both players having the potential to not just clinch the Purple Cap but also lead SRH to glory in IPL 2025.
