IPL 2025: 6 players Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) could retain ahead of the big auction

After three turbulent years, where they continued to finish in the bottom four Indian Premier League (IPL) standing, Sunriers Hyderabad (SRH) made an impressive comeback in IPL 2024, finishing as runners-up.

Sunrisers Hyderabad: Aiming for redemption in IPL 2025

Franchise turnover can be largely attributed to the strategic leadership of AustraliaTest captaincy and ODI, Pat Cumminswho took office Aiden Markram as a captain. Under Cummins’ guidance, SRH adopted an aggressive brand of cricket, which not only revived the team’s morale but also led them to an impressive second-placed finish in the league. They won eight of 14 games, overcoming a shaky start that saw them lose two of their first three games. However, the four-game winning streak allowed them to break several hitting records, leading to a place in the final against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

With the massive IPL 2025 auction on the horizon, SRH is faced with a crucial decision regarding player retention. The new rules allow franchises to retain only six players – up to five and two uncapped players. With the stakes higher than ever, here’s a closer look at the six players SRH are likely to retain to build on their IPL 2024 success.

6 players SRH can retain ahead of IPL 2025:

1. Travis Head

Travis Head emerged as the cornerstone of SRH’s batting during IPL 2024. The Australian left-hander, acquired for INR 6.80 crore, quickly adapted to the T20 format and took the league by storm. Over 15 matches, he amassed 567 runs at an impressive strike rate of 191.55. His ability to score goals and keep his composure under pressure has made him one of the most watched players in the tournament.

Head’s performance included outstanding performances such as his 102 off just 41 balls Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and two 89 back-to-back counters Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) again Delhi Capitals (DC). His explosive style and his ability to end the bowling attack early in the innings gave SRH a vital boost throughout the tournament. Retaining Head is important for SRH, as his form and brilliance will be crucial to their aspirations in IPL 2025.

2. Heinrich Klaasen

South African wicketkeeper Heinrich Klaasen cemented his status as SRH’s match winner. After joining the franchise for INR 5.25 crore, Klaasen’s contributions have been significant in key situations, especially in IPL 2024. In 16 matches, he has scored 479 runs at an average of 39.92 and a strike rate of 171.07, including hundreds four years.

Klaasen’s ability to change the mood of the game with his powerful hitting style makes him a dominant player. His exceptional form continued last season, where he scored 448 runs in 12 matches, showing his consistency. SRH would be wrong to let Klaasen go, given his ability to get into high-pressure situations and his ability to change the game with explosive innings.

3. Abhishek Sharma

Abhishek Sharma’s emergence as SRH’s all-rounder has been impressive, especially in IPL 2024. The young left-handed opener has featured in all 16 matches and scored 484 runs at an impressive strike rate of 204.21. His ability to provide explosive starts, especially in partnership with Travis Head, proved useful for SRH.

The combination of Head and Abhishek flourished, contributing to three hundred partnerships, including a stunning 167* against LSG. Abhishek’s dominance in power-hitting was highlighted when he bagged the award for hitting the most sixes (42) in the season. His youthful energy and aggressive batting make him an important player to retain, as he promises to change SRH’s game in the upcoming tournaments.

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4. Bhuvneshwar Kumar

Although he has faced some criticism regarding his performance, he is a veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar remains a key element of SRH’s bowling attack. His knowledge and skills were on full display in IPL 2024, where he took 12 wickets in 12 matches. One of his standout moments came when he defended against two runs Rajasthan Royals (RR) on final delivery against Rovman Powellshowing his strength in stressful situations.

Bhuvneshwar’s ability to execute yorkers and bowl effectively at the death makes him an integral part of SRH’s strategy. His leadership and knowledge of the game serves as a valuable resource for the younger players in the team. Given his track record and experience, Bhuvneshwar is likely to be retained as SRH look to strengthen their bowling line-up for IPL 2025.

5. Aiden Markram

Although Aiden MarkramHis leadership is questioned during IPL 2023, his versatility and immense talent cannot be ignored. The South African international has the ability to play multiple roles in the batting and provides stability to the line-up. He scored 220 runs in 11 innings during the season, but his experience and strategic mind make him a valuable player in the team.

Markram’s previous experience as a captain adds an element of tactical depth to SRH’s plans, even if he is not leading the side. His ability to adapt and contribute at all different positions in the batting order makes him a player that SRH would be wise to retain, ensuring that they have a mix of leadership and skill in their ranks for the coming season.

6. Abdul Samad (Unlisted)

Abdul Samad a young talent who has been with SRH for a few seasons and has shown significant promise. Retained ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction, Samad has already proved himself as a reliable uncapped player. In IPL 2024, he played all 16 matches and boasts 577 runs from 50 matches at a strike rate of 146.08.

Known for his powerful batting ability, especially in the death overs, Samad’s skills make him a valuable asset in the SRH lineup. He has the ability to end matches with his batting prowess and is considered an important part of SRH’s batting depth going forward. His retention will give SRH a flexible option to rush the score during critical stages of the game.

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