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The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2024 witnessed several players putting up exceptional performances, further strengthening their claims for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season.
Strong performance ahead of the IPL 2025
This premier domestic T20 tournament allowed young and seasoned Indian cricketers to showcase their form, technique, and match-winning abilities. Among these standout performers were several players from the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) squad, who excelled across batting and bowling departments, leaving a significant mark ahead of the 2025 IPL season. For SRH, who continue to rebuild their squad with a mix of talented youth and proven performers, these outings are crucial. The performances in SMAT 2024 offer a glimpse of what fans can expect as SRH aims for a successful IPL 2025 campaign.
7 SRH players who made a strong impact in SMAT 2024
1. Abhishek Sharma (Punjab)
Abhishek emerged as one of the most destructive batters in SMAT 2024. Playing for Punjab, he scored 255 runs in 7 innings at an impressive strike rate of 216.10. His standout performance was an unbeaten 106 runs, where he combined explosive hitting with precision shot selection. Sharma smashed 26 fours and 18 sixes, showcasing his ability to dominate bowling attacks. His remarkable form makes him a critical player for SRH’s top order in IPL 2025, especially for providing explosive starts.
2. Ishan Kishan (Jharkhand)
Kishan continued his reputation as an attacking wicketkeeper-batter, scoring 161 runs in 6 innings for Jharkhand. His highest score of 77 not out came at a blistering strike rate of 167.70, making him a consistent threat for opposition bowlers. Kishan’s aggressive approach and clean hitting ability, evidenced by 18 boundaries and 12 sixes, underline his value in the middle order. For SRH in IPL 2025, Kishan’s versatility as a finisher or top-order batter adds dynamism to their lineup.
3. Simarjeet Singh (Delhi)
Simarjeet emerged as a bowling spearhead for Delhi, finishing with 9 wickets in 5 matches at an outstanding average of 14.88. His best figures of 3/16 showcased his ability to pick crucial wickets with economical bowling. Simarjeet consistently applied pressure with his sharp line and lengths, conceding runs at just 7.58 per over. His reliability with the new ball and in death overs makes him a valuable asset for SRH, providing them with control and penetration in IPL 2025.
Also READ: IPL 2025: 5 KKR players who made an strong impact in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024
4. Harshal Patel (Haryana)
Harshal demonstrated his experience and skill, picking up 11 wickets in 7 matches for Haryana. Known for his variations and control, Patel delivered a standout performance of 5/12, reflecting his ability to dismantle batting lineups. His economy rate of 7.83 and strike rate of 12.45 underline his effectiveness across phases. Harshal’s consistency as a death-over specialist could make him a game-changer for SRH in IPL 2025, especially in high-pressure situations.
5. Mohammed Shami (Bengal)
Veteran pacer Shami continued his fine form, taking 11 wickets in 9 matches for Bengal. Operating with remarkable consistency, Shami delivered impactful spells, including best figures of 3/21, with a strike rate of 19.36. His ability to swing the ball and extract bounce remains a major asset. Shami’s experience and leadership qualities add depth to SRH’s bowling unit in IPL 2025, ensuring balance and composure in key matches.
6. Atharva Taide (Vidarbha)
Taide delivered solid performances for Vidarbha, scoring 189 runs in 6 matches at an average of 37.80. Taide’s fluent stroke play and strike rate of 142.10 allowed him to anchor innings while accelerating when needed. His top score of 66 highlighted his composure under pressure, supported by 27 boundaries. Taide’s adaptability and form position him as a dependable top-order option for SRH, providing stability and partnerships in IPL 2025.
7. Abhinav Manohar (Karnataka)
Manohar shined for Karnataka with impactful finishes, scoring 106 runs in 5 innings at an impressive average of 53.00. His quick-fire 56 not out, scored at a strike rate of 147.22, showcased his ability to accelerate late in the innings. With a reputation for clearing boundaries, including 10 fours and a six, Manohar’s finishing prowess will be key for SRH in IPL 2025. His role as a finisher can provide the team with valuable runs at the death.
