As the IPL 2025 season looms on the horizon, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) looks set to capitalize on their strategic retentions and new acquisitions, aiming to bounce back stronger. The team’s strategy for the next season seems to hinge on three pivotal players who have either shown remarkable form or bring back a winning pedigree to the squad: Abhishek Sharma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and Mohammed Shami. Each player brings a distinct set of skills that could be instrumental in turning Sunrisers Hyderabad into title contenders.
Abhishek Sharma
Abhishek Sharma had what can only be described as a breakout season in the IPL 2024, where he transformed from a promising talent into a key component of Sunrisers Hyderabad’s batting lineup. At just 24 years old, Sharma amassed 484 runs in 16 matches, boasting an average of 32.26 and a strike rate of 204.21, which is among the highest in the league. His ability to score quickly was evident with 42 sixes, setting a record for the most sixes by an Indian in a single IPL season. His highest score of 75* was not just about the numbers; it was about the timing, the situation, and the impact it had on Sunrisers Hyderabad’s performance in those matches.
Sharma’s aggressive approach at the top of the order can set the tone for Sunrisers Hyderabad’s innings, providing them with rapid starts that can demoralize opposing teams from the outset. His left-handed batting style adds variety to the opening pair, often disrupting the bowling plans. Moreover, his consistent performances in IPL 2024 suggest that he’s not just a one-season wonder but a player who can be relied upon for big scores in crucial games. If Sharma continues this form into IPL 2025, Sunrisers Hyderabad could well find themselves in a position to dominate from the first ball.
Nitish Kumar Reddy
Nitish Kumar Reddy’s performance in the IPL 2024 was a revelation for Sunrisers Hyderabad, establishing him as a key all-rounder for the team. Scoring 303 runs at a strike rate of 142.92 and taking three wickets, Reddy showcased his versatility and cricketing acumen. His role in Sunrisers Hyderabad’s middle order was pivotal, providing stability when needed and acceleration when the situation demanded. His notable innings against Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals, where he played match-winning knocks, underscored his ability to perform under pressure.
Reddy’s award for the Emerging Player of the Season speaks volumes about his impact on the team. His right-arm medium pace adds another dimension to Sunrisers Hyderabad’s bowling attack, offering control in the middle overs which can be crucial in T20 cricket. His fielding, characterized by sharp catches and agile movements, further adds value to his all-round package. For IPL 2025, Reddy’s confidence and experience from the previous season could see him evolve from an emerging player to a mainstay in SRH’s lineup, potentially shaping many matches’ outcomes.
Mohammed Shami
Mohammed Shami, after missing the entire IPL 2024 season due to injury post the World Cup 2023, brings back to SRH a wealth of experience and a proven track record from his stellar 2023 IPL season. Shami clinched the Purple Cap with 28 wickets in 17 matches, showcasing his ability to dismantle batting line-ups with his pace, swing, and impeccable line and length. His return to SRH is not just about adding another bowler but bringing back a match-winner who can change the game’s complexion with a single spell.
Shami’s absence in IPL 2024 left a void in SRH’s bowling attack, especially in the powerplay and death overs where his skills are most lethal. His experience in international cricket, where he has been one of India’s leading bowlers in crucial matches, means he brings not just skill but also a winning mentality to the team. If Shami can regain full fitness and form, his presence in IPL 2025 could be the difference between SRH being just good and being exceptional. His ability to bowl effectively in all phases of the game gives SRH the luxury of having a bowler who can adapt to various match situations.
The trio of Abhishek Sharma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and Mohammed Shami forms a core around which SRH can build a formidable team for IPL 2025. Sharma’s explosive starts, Reddy’s all-round capabilities, and Shami’s proven bowling prowess could collectively elevate SRH’s performance on multiple fronts. If these players can maintain or surpass their previous season’s performances, SRH not only strengthens its squad but also sends a clear message about their aspirations for the title. Their synergy, if harnessed well, might just be what SRH needs to reclaim their glory in the IPL.
