After Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) suffered their fourth consecutive defeat in IPL 2025, former Indian cricketer Ambati Rayudu believes that it’s not just the batting but SRH’s defensive bowling approach, especially in the middle overs, that’s hurting their chances.
Speaking on ESPNcricinfo’s TimeOut show, Rayudu expressed concern about SRH’s inability to take wickets during crucial middle overs. In their five games so far, SRH have managed just 12 wickets between overs 7 to 16, averaging 41.33 with an economy of 9.92—the third-worst performance among the ten IPL franchises this season.
“I don’t see SRH trying to take wickets,” Rayudu said. “They’re too defensive—more focused on restricting boundaries than breaking partnerships. That won’t win you the IPL.”
Middle Overs – The Breaking Point
Rayudu contrasted SRH’s bowling strategy with that of Gujarat Titans, who have effectively used bowlers like Sai Kishore, Rashid Khan, and Prasidh Krishna to apply pressure and grab key wickets. The Titans’ middle-overs bowling has been tight and threatening, while SRH’s has lacked that cutting edge.
“GT are attacking. They build pressure. SRH? They’re just containing—and that’s not enough.”
Batting Blues Still Loom
While Rayudu underlined bowling as the bigger concern, he didn’t ignore the struggles of SRH’s top order. After a blazing start to the season with 286 against Rajasthan Royals, their aggressive batting template has largely failed to produce consistent results. Their last four scores—190, 163, 120, and 152—are evidence of a rapid decline.
Openers Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma have failed to provide strong starts. Head has managed a couple of decent knocks (67, 47), but Abhishek has scored just 51 runs across five innings. SRH’s best opening stand in their last four matches is a mere 15 runs.
Still, Rayudu believes Abhishek has the potential to bounce back with minor adjustments.
“It’s about mindset. Get those singles, find gaps, get your rhythm going. The big shots will come. They’re trying to force it too early.”
Over-Aggression Needs a Pause
Rayudu also observed technical changes in the SRH top order. Players like Abhishek and Ishan Kishan (though Kishan plays for MI), are lifting their bats higher to muscle the ball. But opponents are now countering this with fuller deliveries—trapping batters who are still looking to clear the infield with aerial shots.
“These are half-volleys. Just hit the gaps. Wait for the right ball. Be smart. Once you settle, go after them.”
Also Read : Fuller the Better”: KKR’s Swing Plan Dismantles SRH’s Powerhouse Batting
