The Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) will enter the IPL 2025 season with high hopes after finishing as runners-up in IPL 2024. Under Pat Cummins’ leadership, they aim to clinch their second IPL title, but their recent auction strategy and squad choices have sparked discussions.
SRH’s Predicted Strongest Playing XI for IPL 2025
| Position | Player Name |
|---|---|
| Openers | Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma |
| Middle Order | Ishan Kishan, Abhishek Manohar, Heinrich Klaasen |
| All-Rounders | Nitish Kumar Reddy, Pat Cummins |
| Bowlers | Mohammed Shami, Harshal Patel, Jaydev Unadkat, Adam Zampa |
| Impact Player | Kamindu Mendis replacing Travis Head |
- Top-Order Strength: SRH’s opening duo of Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma will provide quick starts.
- Middle-Order Power: The team will rely on Ishan Kishan and Heinrich Klaasen for stability and big hits.
- Bowling Attack: Mohammed Shami and Pat Cummins will lead the fast bowling unit, while Adam Zampa will spearhead the spin department.
- Impact Player Strategy: Kamindu Mendis could replace Travis Head based on conditions.
Key Auction Moves & Questionable Decisions
1. Ishan Kishan at No. 3 – A Risky Move?
SRH acquired Ishan Kishan for INR 11.25 crore, a big investment, but fitting him in the playing XI is a challenge. He has been an opener for Mumbai Indians (MI) but might have to bat at No. 3 for SRH, a role he is not accustomed to. If this experiment fails, it might disrupt the team’s batting flow.
2. Not Retaining Aiden Markram
SRH had a Right-to-Match (RTM) card but chose not to use it on Aiden Markram, who brings experience and leadership skills. His 974 IPL runs in 42 matches and solid record against spinners could have added depth and balance to the squad.
3. Lack of Death-Bowling Options
While SRH signed promising names like Brydon Carse, Kamindu Mendis, and Eshan Malinga, their death bowling remains a concern. Apart from Harshal Patel, there is no proven finisher in crunch overs, which could prove costly in close matches.
Sachin Baby’s Form a Positive for SRH
Despite some concerns, SRH can take confidence from Sachin Baby’s recent performances in the Ranji Trophy 2025 final. Although Kerala lost the match, Baby played well, scoring 516 runs in 15 innings at an average of 36.85. He was signed for INR 30 lakh and could be a key backup player for SRH.
Can SRH Finally Lift the IPL Trophy Again?
With a mix of world-class players and young talents, SRH has a strong squad on paper. However, team balance and player adaptability will play a crucial role in determining their success in IPL 2025. If their strategies work, they could be strong title contenders, but if their auction choices backfire, they may struggle in key moments.
