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2023 has undeniably been a year full of milestones for Australia cricketer Pat Cummins, as he first showcased exceptional leadership skills by guiding Australia to victory in the World Test Championship 2021-2023 final. His contributions extended beyond the longest format, anchoring the yellow team to their sixth ODI World Cup triumph.
Cummins also found himself in the limelight off the field, securing the second most expensive deal in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL). In the IPL auction 2024, Sunrisers Hyderabad acquired the services of the all-rounder for a staggering INR 20.50 crore. While this move underscores Cummins’ market value, former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull has raised questions about his role within the Sunrisers squad, casting uncertainty on whether the latter will be entrusted with the captaincy for the franchise in the upcoming IPL season.
Simon Doull of Cummins’ chance of becoming SRH captain
Doull speculated on SRH’s acquisition of Cummins, suggesting he could take on a leadership role within the team. The Auckland-based cricketer hinted that the juggernaut could play more games in the upcoming season, possibly at the expense of other players like Aiden Markram and Marco Jansen.
“Maybe they are looking for a captain. We have joked a little bit about it. Does Markram play every game now? They haven’t announced their skipper. Does Pat Cummins take over that franchise? Does he come in and play a lot more instead of a Jansen next year for them?” Doull said while reviewing the auction on Star Sports.
Also READ: Sunrisers Hyderabad full squad: Complete list of SRH players after IPL 2024 auction
‘That’s going to be the question mark’: Doull on Cummins’ chances in SRH’s playing XI
Doull further emphasized the challenge for SRH in accommodating Cummins in the playing XI, considering the team’s existing pool of high-quality overseas talent. He pointed out the dilemma of finding a spot for the Australian skipper and questioned which player might make way for him.
“That’s going to be the question mark. Now that you have paid all this money, you have got to get him into that team. Where does he start and whose place does he take? They have got a lot of high-quality overseas talent.” the 50-year-old added.
