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Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are once again entering Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 with one of the most formidable squads in the competition. will be one of the most closely watched teams in IPL 2025 after their explosive batting performances in 2024 and a strengthened squad for the new season.
With their aggressive batting approach and a well-rounded bowling attack, SRH have the potential to dominate once again. Their batting firepower, led by Abhishek Sharma and others can take apart any bowling attack, while the experience of Pat Cummins adds depth to their bowling unit. If SRH can maintain their aggressive intent throughout the season while ensuring their key players remain fit, they will be strong contenders for the title. The pressure will be on Cummins and the team management to ensure they peak at the right time and avoid the mistakes of IPL 2024.
5 players to watch out for Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL 2025
1. Abhishek Sharma – The powerplay enforcer
Abhishek was one of SRH’s biggest revelations in IPL 2024, forming a destructive opening partnership with Travis Head. The left-hander took full advantage of the powerplay, scoring at a blistering strike rate and decimating opposition bowlers early on.
- Recent form: Since his stellar IPL 2024 season, Abhishek has maintained his explosive batting form, boasting a staggering strike rate of over 200 in the almost 30 games he has played since. His ability to clear the ropes with ease has been on full display, with three T20 hundreds, two of which came in his last six games.
- Why he’s key: If Abhishek can replicate his early IPL 2024 form and maintain consistency throughout the tournament, SRH will have a massive advantage. His aggressive starts will not only put the opposition under pressure but also allow the middle order to dictate the tempo of the game. However, he must ensure that he does not fade away in the crucial playoff stage as he did last season.
2. Travis Head – The gamechanger at the top
Head was SRH’s X-factor last season, complementing Abhishek Sharma in the powerplay and single-handedly dismantling bowling attacks. His fearless approach redefined how teams utilize the first six overs.
- Recent Form: Head has continued his aggressive style across formats, proving his credentials in international cricket as well. His ability to play both spin and pace effectively makes him a nightmare for bowlers in the IPL.
- Why He’s Key: If Head can build on his IPL 2024 success, he will once again be SRH’s engine in the powerplay. His ability to accelerate from ball one makes him one of the most dangerous batters in the tournament. Much like Abhishek, he will need to avoid a slump in form towards the backend of the season, which cost SRH dearly last year.
Also READ: IPL 2025: SRH’s best playing XI and impact players
3. Mohammed Shami – The powerplay specialist
Mohammed Shami is set to return to IPL action after recovering from an ankle injury that sidelined him for over a year. When fit, Shami is arguably the best new-ball bowler in the IPL, with his ability to swing the ball both ways and extract movement off the surface.
- Recent Form: Before his injury, Shami was one of the most lethal powerplay bowlers in the IPL, picking up 28 wickets in that phase across the 2022 and 2023 seasons at an average of 21.25 and an economy of 7.08. Since his comeback, he has featured in four T20s in the powerplay and has already picked up two wickets. His impressive nine-wicket haul in the Champions Trophy further confirmed that he is back to his best.
- Why He’s Key: With Bhuvneshwar Kumar no longer in the squad, Shami’s role becomes even more crucial. If he can strike early in the powerplay and provide SRH with crucial breakthroughs, opposition teams will struggle to post big totals. However, managing his workload and fitness throughout the long season will be a challenge.
4. Pat Cummins – The captain and bowling leader
Pat Cummins had a sensational debut season as an IPL captain, leading SRH to the final. While his leadership was a big talking point, his ability to contribute with both bat and ball made him a key player for the franchise.
- Recent Form: Cummins missed the Champions Trophy due to an ankle injury but has resumed bowling and has been declared match-fit. His last T20 appearance was in the MLC final in July 2024, and he has been working on regaining full match fitness through extensive rehab.
- Why He’s Key: As the captain, Cummins’ role goes beyond his individual performance. His tactical nous, calm demeanor, and ability to step up in pressure moments make him indispensable for SRH. Additionally, his ability to bowl hard lengths and chip in with late-order hitting gives SRH a valuable all-round option. If he remains injury-free, he will be a major asset in their title pursuit.
5. Ishan Kishan – The X-factor in the middle order
SRH made a massive investment in Ishan Kishan, outbidding multiple teams to secure him at the IPL 2025 mega auction. Known for his explosive batting and ability to keep wickets, Kishan is expected to be the glue that holds SRH’s middle order together.
- Recent Form: Though he was out of the Indian team for a while, Kishan has made a strong return, showcasing his ability to anchor the innings as well as accelerate when needed. His aggressive 73-run knock in a practice game ahead of IPL 2025 showed he is in prime form.
- Why He’s Key: Unlike last season, where SRH heavily relied on their top order, Kishan provides stability and firepower in the middle. If the openers fail, he has the ability to rebuild the innings, while also taking on bowlers in the slog overs. His dual role as a wicketkeeper adds further balance to the squad.
