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Tag: IPL 2025

  • Rajasthan Royals appoint Vikram Rathour as Batting Coach ahead of IPL 2025

    Rajasthan Royals appoint Vikram Rathour as Batting Coach ahead of IPL 2025

    National, 20 September 2024: Rajasthan Royals today announced the appointment of former India opener Vikram Rathour as the team’s Batting Coach. Rathour, a seasoned cricket professional, joins the Royals’ coaching setup shortly after the franchise welcomed Rahul Dravid back as Head Coach, reigniting a successful partnership that elevated India to the top of the rankings in all three formats during their stint together, and led the country to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 title earlier this year.

    Rathour brings extensive experience, having played six Tests and seven ODIs for India before transitioning into a highly respected coaching role. Known for his technical acumen, Rathour served as India’s Batting Coach from 2019 to 2023, playing a key role in shaping the performances of emerging Indian batters. His tenure saw him guide players like Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, and KL Rahul among others, through crucial phases of their development. Prior to his India role, Rathour was a national selector and also coached Punjab and Himachal Pradesh in domestic cricket.

    Welcoming Rathour to the franchise, Rahul Dravid, Head Coach, Rajasthan Royals, said, “Having worked closely with Vikram for many years, I can confidently say that his technical expertise, calm demeanor, and deep understanding of Indian conditions make him a perfect fit for the Royals. Together, we’ve built a strong rapport, guiding India to key successes, and I’m thrilled to reunite with him. His ability to nurture young talent and elevate players’ potential will be invaluable as we aim to further strengthen our squad and continue building a world-class team here at Rajasthan Royals.”

    Vikram Rathour, who has coached multiple domestic and international teams, expressed his excitement, saying, “It’s a privilege to be part of the Royals family. The opportunity to work again with Rahul, and now with a talented group of young cricketers, is hugely exciting. I look forward to contributing to the team’s vision and working toward our goal of developing top-class players for the Royals and for India which can help in winning championships.”

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  • IPL 2025: Devon Conway drops massive hint about getting retained by CSK

    IPL 2025: Devon Conway drops massive hint about getting retained by CSK

    Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter Devon Conway dropped a massive hint about the franchise retaining him for the India Premier League (IPL) 2025. He came up with a one-word response that almost confirmed his future with the five-time IPL champions.

    The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is all set to have a mega auction and therefore teams will be having massive changes going into the next edition of the league. It no doubt will be a massive loss for some of the franchises because they have the services of some of the great players.

    One of those franchises will be Chennai Super Kings. The Ruturaj Gaikwad-led side currently have some of the big match-winners in the team. Along with skipper, they have Ravindra Jadeja, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Shivam Dube, Matheesha Pathirana, Mateehsa Theekshana, and Mustafizur Rahman in their ranks

    New Zealand National Cricket Team batter Devon Conway also stands in that list as he has been decent for the franchise in the league and has been among the consistent batters. Therefore Chennai Super Kings will have to take some of the tough calls related to the retentions before heading into the mega auction.

    But with various speculations about the retentions of the players, Devon Conway gave a massive hint about his future with the Chennai Super Kings. During the ongoing first Test between Sri Lanka and New Zealand, the Kiwi player was asked by a fan will he be playing for the franchise next year or not.

    The New Zealand star batter replied with one word, saying, ‘Hopefully.’ There have been several reports that the franchises will be allowed to retain 6 players ahead of the auction and also team will be getting RTMs as well. Therefore there is a high chance that he might get retained.

    Devon Conway became part of the Chennai Super Kings in the IPL 2022

    Devon Conway became part of Chennai Super Kings in the IPL 2022 mega auction and since then he has been a consistent batter for the team in the league. In his first season, he played 7 games and made 252 runs which included three-half-centuries.

    Devon Conway was the main reason why Chennai Super Kings went on to win the Indian Premier League in 2023 under the leadership of MS Dhoni. He formed a formidable opening partnership with Ruturaj Gaikwad as the duo helped the team win their 5th title in the league.

    Conway ended the season with 672 runs in 16 matches with an average and a strike rate of 51.69 and 139.71 with nine half-centuries to his name. He also came up with a brutal innings in the final that helped Chennai Super Kings chase the big target against Gujarat Titans.

    The 33-year-old missed the 2024 season due to an injury and in his absence, CSK struggled to form a dependable opening pair. With him making a massive impact on the team in the two seasons, it won’t be a surprise if he gets retained by the team.



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  • 3 players Rajasthan Royals can release ahead of IPL 2025 auction

    3 players Rajasthan Royals can release ahead of IPL 2025 auction

    As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025  mega auction is around the corner, Rajasthan Royals (RR), the inaugural champions of the prestigious tournament, are preparing for making key decisions.

    Having showcased a powerful performance in IPL 2024, where they demonstrated remarkable competitiveness, teamwork, and resilience, the Royals are keen to retain a core group of players who can drive them forward in their pursuit of another title. However, certain players may be released as part of their strategic shake-up to optimize the squad’s balance.

    3 potential key releases by Rajasthan Royals ahead of the IPL 2025 auction

    1. Shimron Hetmyer

    The 27-year-old West Indian middle-order batter, who made his IPL debut in 2019, has been a part of Rajasthan Royals since 2022. Shimron Hetmyer made notable contributions during the 2021 and 2022 editions, but his performance in the most recent 2024 season was underwhelming. Despite being a proven power-hitter, he managed to score only 113 runs in 12 matches, with his highest score being 27 not out and an average of 22.60. This marked a sharp decline from his 2023 season, where he amassed 300 runs across 14 matches.

    With RR already boasting a strong middle-order lineup, featuring players like Sanju Samson, Riyan Parag, and Rovman Powell, Hetmyer has found it challenging to secure a regular spot. His inability to perform consistently in the 2024 edition may lead the Royals to consider releasing him ahead of the 2025 auction, freeing up space for either a new foreign acquisition or a promising domestic player.

    Also READ: 3 players KKR can release ahead of IPL 2025 auction

    2. Navdeep Saini

    Indian fast bowler Navdeep Saini has been with Rajasthan Royals since 2022 but has struggled to make a significant impact. In the 2024 season, Saini did not feature in a single match, and in the 2023 season, he played only two matches, taking three wickets. His IPL career statistics are modest, with just 23 wickets in 32 matches.

    Despite his raw pace and potential, Saini’s lack of opportunities and inconsistent performances have hampered his growth in the IPL. With Rajasthan Royals already having a strong pace attack led by the likes of Trent Boult and Sandeep Sharma, it is becoming increasingly difficult for Saini to break into the playing XI. Given his limited role in the last two seasons, the franchise may consider releasing him to explore better options in the upcoming auction.

    3. Keshav Maharaj

    South African left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj joined Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2024 but has found it hard to establish himself in the team. The 34-year-old bowler has played only two IPL matches so far, for RR, in which he took two wickets. While Maharaj is an experienced international player, his limited exposure to the IPL format, coupled with his inability to cement his spot in the team, makes him a potential candidate for release.

    With RR already having a formidable spin department that includes Yuzvendra Chahal and versatile options like Ravichandran Ashwin and Parag, Maharaj’s place in the team has come under scrutiny. The Royals may opt to release him to make room for either another foreign spinner or a younger domestic player to strengthen their squad for the 2025 season.

    Also READ: Mumbai Indians: 3 key players MI can release ahead of IPL 2025 mega auction

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  • Chennai Super Kings: 3 key players CSK can release ahead of IPL 2025 mega auction

    Chennai Super Kings: 3 key players CSK can release ahead of IPL 2025 mega auction

    Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have solidified their status as one of the most esteemed franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL), with a remarkable five titles to their name. Despite facing criticism for often acquiring players over the certain age, CSK have consistently delivered strong performances on the field. However, the franchise’s approach has been under scrutiny, especially with their latest campaign.

    Chennai Super Kings: Leadership transition and impact

    The 2024 season marked a significant transition for CSK as MS Dhoni, the iconic captain, stepped down from his leadership role. With Dhoni handing over the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad just before the season opener, the franchise experienced a period of adjustment. Gaikwad’s performance as captain received mixed reviews, with some decisions coming under scrutiny. Nevertheless, he demonstrated solid batting form throughout the season.

    Despite this change, CSK managed to maintain a semblance of unity and cohesion throughout the season. Dhoni’s departure did not immediately disrupt the team’s dynamics, though they ultimately failed to secure a playoff berth. His enduring presence remains influential, but his future participation in the IPL is uncertain, potentially pending decisions from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding player retention rules and the potential reintroduction of ‘Right To Match’ (RTM) cards.

    Indian Premier League: 2024 season performance and challenges

    In IPL 2024, CSK’s campaign concluded with a disappointing exit from the playoffs, following a narrow defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). This outcome, combined with a slightly inferior Net Run Rate (NRR), meant they finished outside the top four. This was the third time in 15 seasons that CSK did not advance to the playoffs. The team faced several challenges, including key player injuries and the loss of Devon Conway before the season began. Despite retaining core players and making strategic additions at the auction, injuries to bowlers like Matheesha Pathirana further impacted their performance.

    Also READ: 3 players Delhi Capitals can release ahead of IPL 2025 auction

    3 crucial players CSK might consider releasing before the IPL 2025 mega auction:

    1. Premier bowler’s struggles and injuries

    Deepak Chahar, premier fast bowler, renowned for his ability to swing the new ball and make early breakthroughs, had a season to forget in IPL 2024. Over eight matches, he managed only five wickets at an average of 40. His trademark pace and swing were frequently undermined by persistent injury issues, which kept him out of several games and hindered his performance. This inconsistency, combined with the need for a reliable and impactful pace attack, may lead CSK to reconsider his future with the franchise. The team’s focus will likely shift towards securing bowlers who can deliver consistently throughout the tournament.

    2. Veteran Batter’s form decline

    Ajinkya Rahane, the veteran batter, who dazzled in IPL 2023 with a remarkable strike rate of 172.48, faced a notable decline in performance during the 2024 season. In 12 innings, he accumulated 242 runs at a strike rate of 123.46, a significant drop from his previous explosive form. At 36 years old, and with a batting approach that often requires time to get going, his inability to replicate last season’s success could prompt CSK to seek younger, more dynamic players. The franchise’s strategic shift towards future talent might lead them to release him and explore options that offer both immediate impact and long-term potential.

    3. All-rounder’s limited contribution

    Moeen Ali, the all-rounder, who was expected to be a pivotal player with both bat and ball, fell short of expectations in IPL 2024. His appearances were limited to just eight matches, where he scored 128 runs and took only two wickets at an economy rate of 8.87. His recent announcement of retirement from international cricket for England further complicates his standing with CSK. Given his subdued impact this season and the added factor of his retirement, the franchise may opt to release him in favour of acquiring players who can provide consistent all-round performance and contribute to the team’s growth and success in the upcoming seasons.

    Also READ: Royal Challengers Bengaluru: 3 key players RCB can release ahead of IPL 2025 mega auction

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  • Royal Challengers Bengaluru: 3 key players RCB can release ahead of IPL 2025 mega auction

    Royal Challengers Bengaluru: 3 key players RCB can release ahead of IPL 2025 mega auction

    As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction approaches, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) faces a critical decision regarding player retention.

    Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB): Trophy drought of 17 years

    With a storied history of near misses and a title drought stretching over 17 years, RCB’s performance in the 2024 season further underscored the need for a strategic overhaul. Despite a dramatic turnaround from a dismal start – losing seven of their first eight matches to eventually qualify for the playoffs after winning six of their last matches – RCB’s inconsistent performance highlights the urgency for a strategic shakeup.

    As RCB prepares for the IPL 2025 mega auction, the decision to retain or release players will be pivotal in shaping the team’s future. RCB’s challenge will be to balance retaining key players while also making room for new talent that can address the gaps exposed in their recent seasons. The upcoming mega auction promises to be a defining moment for RCB as they seek to build a squad capable of ending their long-standing title drought.

    Also READ: IPL 2025 Auction: 4 Players RCB can retain as per the current ‘3+1’ rule

    3 crucial players RCB might consider releasing before the IPL 2025 mega auction:

    1. A talented all-rounder with untapped potential

    Mahipal Lomror, the 25-year-old all-rounder, stands out as a notable candidate for release. Purchased by RCB for Rs 95 lakhs during the IPL 2022 mega auction, Lomror’s performances have yet to live up to expectations. Despite being a promising talent, his impact has been underwhelming.

    In the 2024 season, he played 10 matches, scoring 125 runs with a highest score of 33. While he demonstrated a solid strike rate and the ability to score quickly, Lomror struggled to convert starts into substantial innings. Given his potential as a middle-order batter, Lomror could attract significant bids from other franchises looking to bolster their batting lineup. If RCB decides to part ways with him, it could be a strategic move to allow him to explore opportunities where he might thrive better.

    2. The explosive batter facing uncertainty

    Anuj Rawat, acquired by RCB for Rs 3.4 crores in the IPL 2022 mega auction, is another player who may be on the chopping block. Known for his explosive batting in domestic cricket, Rawat has shown glimpses of his potential but has struggled to make a significant impact for RCB. His role as a finisher was anticipated to be a crucial one, but his performances have not consistently met the expectations set by his price tag. Given his explosive potential and ability to play big innings, Rawat could become a sought-after commodity in the mega auction. His departure from RCB could be an opportunity for other franchises to acquire a player with the ability to turn games around with a quickfire innings.

    3. The struggling star and his future uncertainty

    Glenn Maxwell, who was bought by RCB for INR 11 crore, represents a significant dilemma for the franchise. Maxwell, renowned for his all-round capabilities, had a challenging 2024 season. His form dipped considerably, managing only 52 runs in nine innings and picking up just six wickets.

    Moreover, he faced injury concerns and had to take a break from cricket during the tournament. Although Maxwell has had notable performances in Major League Cricket (MLC), his recent form and age – he will be over 36 by the next season – raise questions about his future with RCB. The team may prefer to invest in younger talent rather than relying on a veteran whose form and fitness are uncertain. As a result, Maxwell could be released, allowing other teams to consider him for their squads.

    Also READ: 3 IPL Teams that could bid for Glenn Maxwell if RCB releases him ft. CSK

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  • Zaheer Khan reveals why he joined LSG, opens up on working with Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan

    Zaheer Khan reveals why he joined LSG, opens up on working with Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan

    Zaheer Khan, the former Indian pacer was named as the new mentor of the Lucknow Super Giants on August 28, Wednesday. He replaced his former Indian teammate Gautam Gambhir who was the previous mentor of the franchise. He is now the head coach of the Indian team.

    Morne Morkel will now partner with Gautam Gambhir as the bowling coach of the Indian team. Gambhir was named the next head coach after Rahul Dravid’s tenure came to an end after the T20 World Cup 2024.

    Meanwhile, Zaheer Khan after his appointment as the mentor said that the real reason behind him joining LSG was the likemindedness about how they thought about the game.

    Zaheer Khan further said that since the common goal was the same hence his decision-making was smooth and swift.

    Also Read: Jay Shah asked to “share the wealth” after assuming the position as ICC Chairman

    Decision Was Swift And Smooth: Zaheer Khan On Joining LSG

    “In the shortest time! If I have to answer it in quick words, I got on the call, I realized that we (the LSG management) are very like-minded people about cricket, how cricket should be played at the franchise level and how the cricketing culture should be built in a franchise. That is the simple connection which I can tell you right now. Of course, there is passion and drive. On the other side, the building blocks are already in place. So the decision was very, very swift and smooth,” said Zaheer in an interaction with Cricbuzz.

    He further spoke about working with the likes of Mohsin Khan and Mayank Yadav. Both have had an injury-ridden career so far. Mayank was very much the find of the IPL earlier this year but his frequent injuries meant that he could only play just four matches taking seven wickets. Mohsin too has been among the finds for LSG but he too has had an injury-prone career.

    In the same interaction, Zaheer Khan spoke about working with the two youngsters if they are retained by the franchise. It is learned that Zaheer will also be involved in scouting and player-development programs during the off-season.

    “Every year you find talent. Every year, you see someone shining bright, who is a completely unknown quantity. I’m looking forward to it. I think that’s one of the reasons that I want to be part of that dugout.

    “I want to be part of that setup. I want to interact with players and share my knowledge, which hopefully will help them go the distance in some way,” said Zaheer on grooming the two youngsters.

    Zaheer had a tremendously successful international career for India. He picked up 311 Test wickets, 283 ODI wickets, and 17 T20I wickets. He was a rare left-arm pacer for India to play for more than a decade.

    Zaheer Khan played 100 matches in his IPL career playing for franchises like the Royal Challengers Bangalore, Mumbai Indians, and Delhi Capitals. He led the Delhi franchise for a couple of seasons and played his last IPL game in 2017.

    Before joining LSG, Zaheer Khan worked with Mumbai Indians as the director of cricket before taking on the role of head of global development.

    Also Read: KL Rahul to RCB confirmed? Sanjiv Goenka breaks silence on batter’s LSG exit

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  • Watch: MS Dhoni shows off his badminton skills, video goes viral

    Watch: MS Dhoni shows off his badminton skills, video goes viral

    Former Indian skipper MS Dhoni has once again caught everyone’s attention but this time not on a cricket field but on the badminton court.

    A video of Dhoni executing a powerful smash during a casual badminton match has gone viral, sparking discussions about his fitness and potential return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season.

    The 43-year-old’s future in the IPL is still uncertain. While there’s no official confirmation about his participation in the upcoming IPL season, Dhoni’s recent activities have kept fans speculating. The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) icon, has maintained a low profile since retiring from international cricket.

    The viral video showed Dhoni’s athletic skills with a racket in his hand. The wicketkeeper-batter is seen executing a perfectly timed jump smash. 

    Also read: Dinesh Karthik after missing MS Dhoni in his all-time India XI

    We will have to take a decision which is best for CSK: MS Dhoni

    Dhoni’s multi-sport interests are well-documented. He has been spotted playing tennis in his hometown of Ranchi and even traveling to the United States for golf sessions with friends. 

    The former skipper’s fitness levels have always been a topic of discussion, especially considering his age and the physical demands of cricket. Despite struggling with a knee injury during IPL 2023, Dhoni’s recent badminton performance suggests he has recovered well and is in excellent physical condition.

    Meanwhile, the recent changes in IPL rules regarding uncapped players and potential retention policies for the upcoming mega auction in 2025 could influence his decision.

    Also read: Suryakumar Yadav posts Instagram story savouring MS Dhoni: The Untold Story

    “There’s a lot of time left for the franchises and management to decide on the retention rules and everything. So when all of it is decided, then we will take a decision. So no we don’t have the ball in our court. When the regulations are decided, then we will be able to take a call…At the end of the day, we will have to take a decision which is best for CSK, and that is the ultimate goal,” Dhoni said at an event.

    CSK CEO Kasi Viswanath has stated that any rule changes would be at the discretion of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

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  • IPL 2025: KKR to trade Shreyas Iyer for Suryakumar Yadav? Here’s what we know

    IPL 2025: KKR to trade Shreyas Iyer for Suryakumar Yadav? Here’s what we know

    The 17th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been marked by a significant upheaval within the Mumbai Indians (MI) camp. In a dramatic move, MI has replaced their long-time captain Rohit Sharma with all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who has returned from the Gujarat Titans (GT) in a high-profile cash deal.

    Future and franchise interest

    This bold decision has ignited speculation about potential rifts between Rohit and Pandya, especially given MI’s underwhelming performance, finishing at the bottom of the points table. Despite an apparent reconciliation during India’s successful T20 World Cup 2024 campaign earlier this year, speculation about Rohit’s future continues to swirl. Reports suggested that Rohit has attracted interest from several franchises who are keen to secure his leadership for the upcoming IPL season. This ongoing uncertainty adds another layer to the evolving story at MI.

    KKR’s pursuit of Suryakumar Yadav in place of Shreyas Iyer

    In addition to the MI drama, recent developments suggest that the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have shown interest in another player of Mumbai-based frnachise Suryakumar Yadav. The newly appointed T20I captain for India is reportedly being courted by KKR to lead their squad starting with IPL 2025. According to journalist Rohit Juglan, KKR has made an unofficial approach to Suryakumar, and a potential trade deal is in the works. This proposed swap could see Yadav return to a former team, with Shreyas Iyer, who led KKR to a title victory last year, potentially moving in the opposite direction.

    Also READ: IPL 2025 Auction: 4 Players KKR can retain as per the current ‘3+1’ rule

    Implications of the  IPL 2025 mega auction

    With a mega auction scheduled before the next IPL season, these rumors are likely to gain traction. However, KKR has yet to release an official statement regarding these speculations. Both Suryakumar and Shreyas are currently participating in the Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament. The final decision will hinge on whether Suryakumar is inclined to return to KKR and how the Mumbai choose to navigate this situation.

    Suryakumar’s IPL record and future prospects

    Suryakumar began his IPL career with KKR under the leadership of Gautam Gambhir, contributing to their IPL-winning squad in 2014. He was later traded to Mumbai in exchange for Nitish Rana. Since joining MI, Yadav’s performance has been exceptional. He has accumulated 3,594 runs in 150 IPL matches at an average of 32.28 and a strike rate of 145.33. His prowess in the top order has been instrumental in several MI victories.

    As the full-time captain of India, Suryakumar led the team to a 3-0 series win over Sri Lanka in his debut series. His next challenge will be leading India in the T20I series against Bangladesh. With the IPL mega auction looming, Suryakumar’s future remains a key topic of discussion.

    Also READ: Rinku Singh reveals why he prefers to join RCB if released by KKR ahead of IPL 2025 auction



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  • IPL 2025 Auction: 4 Players SRH can retain as per the current ‘3+1’ rule

    IPL 2025 Auction: 4 Players SRH can retain as per the current ‘3+1’ rule

    Sunrisers Hyderabad, a franchise that has consistently showcased its potential in the Indian Premier League, delivered a dominant and fearless performance in the recently concluded IPL 2024. Their journey throughout the tournament was marked by exceptional displays of skill, determination and teamwork, culminating in a well-deserved finish as runners-up.

    SRH’s performance in IPL 2024 was a testament to their ability to rise to the occasion and compete at the highest level. Their aggressive batting approach, combined with a disciplined bowling attack, proved to be a formidable combination. The team’s ability to adapt to different conditions and execute their game plans effectively was a key factor in their success.

    As SRH looks ahead to the upcoming IPL season mega auction, they are expected to retain a formidable core of players ahead of the upcoming IPL season. With a strategic approach, SRH is likely to prioritize players who have consistently delivered impressive performances and have been integral to the team’s success.

    Anticipating the mega auction for IPL 2025

    With the IPL 2025 season looming, the highly anticipated mega auction is set to take place, marking the conclusion of the current cycle. While franchises have historically been permitted to retain a maximum of four players, there are ongoing discussions with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding the possibility of expanding this limit to eight. This auction will serve as a pivotal opportunity for teams to revamp their squads and assemble the most formidable combinations to vie for the coveted IPL championship.

    With the possibility of retaining more players, teams will have greater flexibility in deciding which players to prioritize. This could lead to some interesting decisions as franchises weigh the benefits of retaining established stars against the potential of investing in promising young talent.

    Also READ: Virat Kohli stuns everyone by naming this team his surprise pick as favourite IPL rival

    Sunrisers Hyderabad’s probable retention of key players in IPL 2025

    Pat Cummins: The Premier Fast Bowler

    Pat Cummins, the Australian pace sensation and captain, is set to be SRH’s first retention. His exceptional skills and ability to deliver consistently high-quality performances have made him a prized asset for the franchise. Cummins’ ability to swing the ball both ways, combined with his lethal pace and accuracy, has made him a nightmare for batsmen. His presence in the SRH bowling attack provides a significant boost to their chances of success.

    • Lethal pace and accuracy: Cummins’ ability to consistently bowl at high speeds and hit the right length makes him a nightmare for batters.
    • Swing bowling prowess: His ability to swing the ball both ways, especially in the powerplay, gives him a significant advantage over other fast bowlers.
    • Leadership and versatility: Cummins the World Cup-winning SRH captain can be a useful batter, providing valuable runs down the order and was also the captain of the side recently in IPL 2024.

    Abhishek Sharma: The Rising Star

    Abhishek Sharma, the young and talented left-handed batsman, is another likely candidate for retention. Sharma has showcased immense potential and has been a valuable contributor to SRH’s batting lineup. His ability to play aggressive shots while maintaining a solid technique has made him a force to be reckoned with. Sharma’s versatility, which allows him to contribute both with the bat and the ball, makes him a valuable asset for the team.

    • Explosive batting: Sharma’s aggressive approach and ability to hit sixes at will make him a valuable asset in the powerplay and middle overs.
    • Versatility: He can also contribute with the ball, providing a useful spin bowling option.
    • Youth and potential: Sharma is a young player with immense potential for growth and development.

    Bhuvneshwar Kumar: The Experienced Swing King

    Bhuvneshwar Kumar, the seasoned swing bowler, is expected to be retained for the third time by SRH. Kumar’s ability to consistently extract swing and seam movement, even in challenging conditions, has made him a vital part of the SRH bowling attack. His experience and expertise have been invaluable in guiding the team’s bowling unit. Kumar’s presence in the team provides a sense of stability and reliability.

    • Swing bowling expertise: Kumar’s ability to extract swing and seam movement, even in challenging conditions, makes him a valuable asset in the powerplay and death overs.
    • Economy rate: Kumar is known for his ability to bowl tight spells and control the run rate.
    • Experience: His experience and expertise can be invaluable in guiding the team’s bowling unit.

    Abdul Samad: The Promising Young Talent

    Abdul Samad, the talented young batsman, is likely to be the one foreign player retained by SRH. Samad’s explosive hitting abilities and his ability to finish innings strongly have made him a valuable asset for the team. His aggressive approach and his ability to handle pressure situations have impressed many. Samad’s potential for growth and development makes him a promising prospect for the future.

    • Explosive hitting: Samad’s ability to hit sixes at will makes him a valuable finisher in the lower order.
    • Pressure handling skills: He has shown a remarkable ability to handle pressure situations and deliver when it matters most.
    • Youth and potential: Samad is a young player with immense potential for growth and development.

    SRH’s path to IPL glory

    Sunrisers Hyderabad, having consistently shown their mettle in the IPL, can further strengthen their position and aim for the coveted title by strategically addressing key areas. To achieve this, SRH should prioritize acquiring a reliable middle-order batter to bolster their batting lineup and a quality spin bowler to add variety and control to their bowling attack. Maintaining a strong core of players who have been instrumental to their success is crucial, and investing in player development programs can help unlock the full potential of their young talent.

    Strategic auction planning, focusing on identifying target players and setting a realistic budget, is essential. Improving fielding standards through dedicated drills and the guidance of specialized coaches can also significantly impact the team’s performance. Cultivating a positive and supportive team culture, encouraging team bonding, and maintaining a strong sense of camaraderie can create a conducive environment for success. By implementing these strategies, Sunrisers Hyderabad can enhance their squad, improve their performance, and increase their chances of lifting the IPL trophy in the future.

    Also READ: IPL 2025 Auction: 4 Players MI can retain as per the current ‘3+1’ rule

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  • Reports: India captain Suryakumar Yadav to be traded to KKR with title-winning skipper Shreyas Iyer

    Reports: India captain Suryakumar Yadav to be traded to KKR with title-winning skipper Shreyas Iyer

    Kolkata Knight Riders are known to recruit the best talents as evidenced by the rise of Rinku Singh, Shubman Gill, and in the last edition, speedsters like Harshit Rana and Vaibhav Arora. But the franchise is also known to gratify their grey heads, with the likes of Andre Russel and Sunil Narine still wearing the purple jersey proudly.

    As per the reports from NDTV Sports, the defending champions are contemplating bringing in their estranged family member ahead of the IPL 2025. KKR are reportedly trying to rope in Mumbai Indians’ star batter and India’s T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav into their camp. Though Shreyas Iyer led the team to glory in IPL 2024, the move to bring Suryakumar can potentially lead the franchise in disarray among their ardent fans.

    Also Read: Shikhar Dhawan picks his favourite knock in India colours

    Moreover, furthering the collateral damage MI faced since the start of 2024, Rohit Sharma is also reportedly being approached by other franchises with a captaincy role served on a platter. Shedding light on Suryakumar’s potential comeback to KKR, the Kolkata-based franchise seems all in to strike a trade with MI keeping Iyer as the trading card. For the unversed, Yadav played for KKR from 2014 to 2017, before MI assumed his services.

    Iyer to play Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament for Mumbai

    Speaking of Iyer, the India batter was denied a central contract by the BCCI over abstaining from participating in India’s domestic cricket. The right-handed batter had recently made a comeback into the team despite being expelled from the annual contract list. However, the 29-year-old is named in the Duleep Trophy and will also feature in the Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament for Mumbai alongside Suryakumar.

    Also Read: Shami and Iyer open up on Rohit’s hilarious on-field reactions

    “Shreyas Iyer will play for the Mumbai team at the Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament organised by Tamil Nadu Cricket Association. He will be playing the Mumbai v Jammu & Kashmir match to be played from August 27 at Coimbatore,” said MCA joint secretary, Deepak Patil.

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