The Indian Premier League (IPL) has always been a melting pot of strategies, where teams are built not just on the back of individual brilliance but on the synergy of their collective strengths. Heading into IPL 2025, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) presents a squad that’s both promising and perplexing, with clear strengths that could propel them to the top, but also weaknesses that might hold them back. Here, we dissect SRH’s three major strengths and weaknesses as they gear up for the season.
3 Strengths Of SRH In IPL 2025:
Explosive Opening Pair: SRH’s decision to retain Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma as openers could be their ace card. Head, with his ability to anchor innings or accelerate as required, has been a revelation, scoring 567 runs in 15 matches last season. Paired with Abhishek Sharma, who has shown remarkable consistency and aggression with 484 runs in 16 matches, this duo promises a dynamic start that can set the tone for the innings. Their combined strike rates suggest SRH could dominate the powerplay, setting up platforms for middle-order fireworks.
Middle-Order Firepower: Heinrich Klaasen’s inclusion at a hefty price of 23 crore underscores SRH’s belief in his ability to turn games around. His performance in IPL 2024 and the T20 World Cup 2024, where he smashed 190, marks him as one of the most destructive middle-order batsmen. With Klaasen, SRH has a player who can single-handedly win matches, providing the kind of explosive batting that can dismantle any bowling attack.
Pat Cummins’ Leadership and Bowling: Retaining Pat Cummins for 18 crore not only secures a world-class fast bowler but also a leader on the field. Cummins’ ability to lead the bowling attack, combined with his knack for picking up crucial wickets, makes him invaluable. His experience and composure under pressure could be the glue that holds SRH’s bowling together, especially in the death overs.
3 Weaknesses Of Sunrisers Hyderabad In IPL 2025:
Lack of a Reliable Spinner: SRH’s spin bowling department looks thin, with Rahul Chahar and Adam Zampa as the primary options. While both have their merits, the concern lies in depth and variety. If Zampa, who has been inconsistent, is benched, SRH might struggle against teams with strong batting line-ups adept at handling pace. The absence of a quality left-arm spinner or a mystery spinner could be exploited by opponents.
Uncertain Impact Player Role: Abhinav Manohar, acquired for 3.2 crore, is expected to play the impact player role. However, his limited IPL experience (just 2 games last season) and the presence of Abdul Samad, who has shown promise, might lead to underutilization or confusion over roles. Manohar’s potential is undeniable, with 670 runs in T20s, but integrating him effectively into the team could be a challenge.
Middle-Order Depth Concerns: While Klaasen provides firepower, the middle order’s depth beyond him and possibly Nitish Reddy might be a concern. The reliance on one or two players to deliver in the middle could be risky, especially if they fail to fire on the same day. SRH’s strategy might need to evolve to ensure there’s enough cushion if their mainstays struggle.
As SRH steps into IPL 2025, the balance between their strengths and weaknesses will be crucial. Their explosive batting and Cummins’ leadership could very well be the foundation for a successful campaign. However, addressing their spin bowling concerns and ensuring a more robust middle-order strategy will be key to overcoming their vulnerabilities. The IPL is as much about managing weaknesses as it is about leveraging strengths, and for SRH, this season could be about finding that perfect balance.
