Former New Zealand keeper-batter Katey Martin, speaking on ESPNcricinfo’s Time Out, reflected on SRH’s struggles, saying, “That was an improved performance, but sometimes it’s a little bit too late.” She suggested that SRH’s issues stemmed from their failure to realize that their ultra-aggressive batting approach, which had led them to the IPL finals last season, wasn’t working this year. She added that it took SRH “halfway through the tournament to realize that their approach with the bat might not necessarily have to be similar to what worked last year.”

SRH’s attacking strategy had brought them success the previous season, sparking talks about whether they could be the first team to break the 300-run barrier in an IPL match. They began the season with a bang, posting an impressive 286 for 6 against Rajasthan Royals in their opening game. However, their over-aggressive approach quickly backfired, leaving them in a difficult position.

Varun Aaron, a guest on the show, highlighted the importance of adapting to conditions, stating, “There will definitely be some soul searching because you have to put into the equation what conditions dictate to you.” He emphasized that a single, rigid approach would not work if conditions didn’t favor their style, which had been the case this season for SRH. He compared SRH’s approach to that of teams like Gujarat Titans (GT) and Mumbai Indians (MI), who have the flexibility to adapt to various conditions, thanks to their diverse skill sets.

SRH’s head coach, Daniel Vettori, also mentioned after the DC game that the conditions in Hyderabad this year were not as expected, which posed challenges for their batters. Martin responded by pointing out that while conditions are crucial, the best teams are able to adjust to them. “It’s been built around the personnel who can control the middle overs,” she said.

Despite individual contributions from players like Heinrich Klaasen and Ishan Kishan, Martin noted that opposition bowlers were starting to understand how to bowl to SRH’s aggressive batters, exploiting their inability to adjust to changing conditions.

As SRH faces the reality of their playoff dreams slipping away, the team will likely need to reflect on their strategy and approach for future seasons, with a focus on adaptability and playing to the strengths of the conditions.

Also Read : Jayawardene: ‘We Lost Control of the Game’ – MI’s Final Over Decision Sparks Debate

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) began the IPL 2025 season with high energy, playing aggressively as if they had nothing to lose. However, that same attacking approach has now started to backfire. Last season, SRH won five of their first seven games, but this year, they’ve flipped the script, with just one win in their first five matches.

The key to their early success was Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma getting off to quick starts. But when that strategy fails, it has a domino effect. With Nitish Kumar Reddy averaging just 21 and Heinrich Klaasen’s highest score of 35, SRH’s top order is struggling.

Their bowling has been equally underwhelming. Mohammad Shami is averaging 52.20, and Pat Cummins is averaging 36. The lack of impact from their spinners, who have the worst economy rate this season, is also hurting them.

On the flip side, Mumbai Indians (MI) are finding their groove. After a shaky start with just one win in five games, MI has now won three straight matches, moving up the standings. Jasprit Bumrah is back to his lethal best, Mitchell Santner is proving to be a smart spin option, and Trent Boult is swinging the ball brilliantly.

If MI wins this game, they will climb to third place, solidifying their position for the playoff race. SRH, on the other hand, faces a crucial challenge. Another loss could push them further away from the top four.

Big Picture: A win for Mumbai would put them in a strong position, while SRH would be under immense pressure with another defeat.

MI’s turnaround against Delhi Capitals was set up by Mitchell Santner, whose brilliant ball to dismiss Karun Nair helped turn the game in MI’s favor. Santner’s ability to switch between defensive and attacking bowling makes him a valuable asset in varying conditions.

Meanwhile, Nitish Kumar Reddy of SRH has struggled for form this season, managing only 131 runs at a disappointing average of 21.33. With SRH needing a player who can anchor the innings, Reddy’s poor run of form is a big concern.

Team News and Likely XIs

SRH has made some changes, bringing in Rahul Chahar based on conditions, and might look to strengthen their line-up further with Atharva Taide or Abhinav Manohar.

Mumbai, on the other hand, are unlikely to make changes given their recent success.

Sunrisers Hyderabad:

1. Travis Head, 2. Abhishek Sharma, 3. Ishan Kishan, 4. Nitish Kumar Reddy, 5. Heinrich Klaasen (wk), 6. Aniket Verma, 7. Abhinav Manohar/Atharva Taide, 8. Pat Cummins (capt), 9. Harshal Patel, 10. Mohammed Shami, 11. Zeeshan Ansari, 12. Eshan Malinga/Wiaan Mulder

Mumbai Indians:

1. Rohit Sharma, 2. Ryan Rickelton (wk), 3. Suryakumar Yadav, 4. Tilak Varma, 5. Hardik Pandya (capt), 6. Naman Dhir, 7. Will Jacks, 8. Mitchell Santner, 9. Deepak Chahar, 10. Trent Boult, 11. Jasprit Bumrah, 12. Ashwani Kumar

The Big Question

Should SRH temper their approach with the bat?

Pitch and Conditions

The Hyderabad pitch is expected to be a belter, ideal for batting. There have been four scores above 240 this season, and with temperatures expected to hit 38°C, expect plenty of runs.

Stats and Trivia:

• Hyderabad has the highest strike rate among batters, with the most sixes hit this season.
• MI’s batting average has shot up from 28.50 to 36.04 in their last four games.

Quotes

“It’s just a game, but emotional playing at my home-ground. I just want to do my basics right and perform for the team.” – Tilak Varma

Also Read : Gill, Sudharsan and Bowlers Shine as Gujarat Titans Cement Top Spot with 39-Run Win Over KKR

“If it’s going to be overcast, we have the bowling arsenal to combat that. If there are overhead conditions helping the bowlers, we have the bowlers to exploit that. And if we bat in those overhead conditions, the batters know exactly what to do,” Sharma stated.

India’s squad boasts depth, particularly with all-rounders like Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar, who provide balance to the playing XI. With pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah ruled out due to injury, these players will be crucial in filling the void.

Rohit also highlighted the importance of wrist-spinner Varun Chakravarthy, who has an impressive List A record with 60 wickets in 24 matches at an average of 14.80. “He has got something different, which is why he is here with us. He has been impressive in the last eight to nine months,” Sharma said, acknowledging the mystery spinner’s potential impact.

Another key player in India’s campaign will be Mohammad Shami, who recently returned to international cricket following an ankle injury. Though he bowled only 15.5 overs in two ODIs against England, picking up a wicket in each, Sharma emphasized that the focus was on his rhythm rather than immediate wicket-taking returns. “With a bowler like Shami, it’s just about getting back into rhythm. Hopefully, he can find that early in the tournament,” he added.

India, having played nine T20Is in Dubai since 2021 but no ODIs since 2018, will look to adjust quickly as they take on Bangladesh in their opening match.

Also Read : Rachin Ravindra Set to Return as New Zealand Stays Cautious Ahead of Pakistan Clash

Despite uncertainty surrounding his availability, Ravindra was the first to take the nets, confidently marking his guard. With his helmet on, he concealed the stitched wound from the freak incident when a misjudged slog from Khushdil Shah struck him on the forehead.

New Zealand, known for their methodical approach, have ensured his recovery isn’t rushed. Glenn Phillips and Michael Bracewell bowled spin to him in practice, where Ravindra displayed his signature flair—lofted cover drives and powerful on-drives that would have cleared the boundary in a match setting.

Injury Scare and Swift Recovery

When Ravindra initially suffered the blow, fears of a severe injury loomed. He collapsed, dazed and bleeding, as medical staff rushed in. However, updates from the New Zealand camp remained positive—no concussion, no loss of consciousness, and no damage to his facial features.

Captain Kane Williamson praised Ravindra’s resilience, calling him a “chirpy character” who quickly returned to his usual self. Tom Latham, leading in Williamson’s absence, confirmed that while his recovery was progressing well, final clearance depended on medical protocols.

New Zealand’s Adaptability

Over the past fortnight in Pakistan, New Zealand have handled setbacks seamlessly. Devon Conway stepped in for Ravindra in the tri-series, scoring 97 and 48 in crucial matches. Despite losing pacers Lockie Ferguson and Ben Sears, replacements Nathan Smith and Jacob Duffy maintained the team’s momentum.

The Blackcaps showcased their versatility in different match situations—stabilizing the top order before accelerating, executing clinical chases, and suffocating Pakistan with a combined pace-spin attack in the tri-series final.

Latham emphasized adaptability:

“It’s about adjusting to conditions and surfaces. We’ve played three games here and a warm-up match, so the team is familiar with the environment. It’s about executing our brand of cricket.”

Final Preparations

In the final training session, Ravindra observed pace bowlers from the sidelines before joining a discussion with Williamson and bowling coach Shane Jurgensen. Later, he emerged without his helmet, engaging in throwdowns rather than bowling his usual left-arm spin—a sign that caution remains.

New Zealand are in no rush to finalize his return. If he plays, it will be a calculated decision. If he doesn’t, they’ve already proven they can adapt and thrive.

Also Read : RCB Dominate Capitals to Secure Second Consecutive Win

The tournament marks the return of a major ICC event to Pakistan after 29 years, adding an extra layer of excitement for the home side. Pakistan, the defending champions from 2017, will aim to lift the trophy once again in front of their home crowd.

Meanwhile, India, the reigning T20 world champions, will be eager to avenge their 180-run loss to Pakistan in the 2017 final and secure their third Champions Trophy title.

Here’s a look at the top three teams likely to contend for the trophy:

India – The Powerhouse on a Mission

• Best Result: Champions (2002, 2013)
• ODI Ranking: 1
• Key Players: Shubman Gill, Kuldeep Yadav, Hardik Pandya

After falling short in the 2023 ODI World Cup final against Australia, India bounced back to win the T20 World Cup, reaffirming their dominance in white-ball cricket.

Rohit Sharma’s squad enters the tournament in red-hot form, having recently crushed England 3-0 in an ODI series. With Shubman Gill’s exceptional batting, Kuldeep Yadav’s crafty spin, and Hardik Pandya’s all-round abilities, India is the team to beat.

Pakistan – Home Advantage and a Star-Studded Lineup

• Best Result: Champions (2017)
• ODI Ranking: 3
• Key Players: Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Fakhar Zaman

Pakistan’s cricket journey is often unpredictable, filled with stunning victories and unexpected setbacks. However, with home support and a talented squad, they are serious contenders.

Led by Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan boasts Babar Azam’s class, Shaheen Afridi’s pace, and Fakhar Zaman’s big-match temperament—key weapons for their title defense. Recent series wins over Australia (2-1) and South Africa (3-0) show they are ready to challenge the best.

New Zealand – The Underrated Threat

• Best Result: Champions (2000)
• ODI Ranking: 4
• Key Players: Kane Williamson, Matt Henry, Mitchell Santner

New Zealand consistently reaches the knockout stages of ICC events but struggles to convert opportunities into trophies. With experienced names like Kane Williamson and Mitchell Santner, along with a recent tri-nation series win in Pakistan, they could finally break the drought.

Their superior fielding, disciplined bowling, and ability to handle pressure make them dangerous opponents in crucial matches.

Who Will Lift the Trophy?

With a highly competitive lineup, the Champions Trophy 2025 promises thrilling encounters. India enters as the top favorite, Pakistan seeks home glory, and New Zealand remains a dark horse. Cricket fans worldwide eagerly await what could be one of the most memorable ICC events in recent history.

Also Read : Mehidy Hasan Miraz: Seeking Stability Amidst Constant Shuffling

In an exclusive interview with Cricbuzz, Mehidy opens up about expectations, captaincy, and his ideal batting spot.

Excerpts from the Interview:

Are you feeling the pressure of the Champions Trophy?

Since we are playing the Champions Trophy after eight years, it will be challenging for all of us. I was just starting my international cricket when I played in that campaign (in 2017). There were a number of senior players in our team at that time. There will be a few of them this time, but we will have to play that role (which was filled by the seniors), and so we have to perform. There is so much responsibility, but it is not pressure on us. Since I have played international cricket for seven to eight years now, I know how a situation unfolds. I just have to focus now. We don’t have much time. The BPL just concluded. We didn’t get the chance (to train in this format), and there is also a matter of taking rest. But hopefully, the experience will come in handy.

Do you feel the pressure of replacing Shakib?

I played when Shakib bhai was here. The responsibility will be more on me, and the expectations will be higher in both batting and bowling. The team wants that from me. Honestly, I try to support both aspects as the team needs. Maybe sometimes, for some reasons, the outcome isn’t the same, but sometimes it works too. It’s important that every player takes responsibility. My role is very important. I will try to give my 100%. At the same time, maybe the pressure wasn’t there on me like this when Shakib bhai was here. Maybe that’s why I did well. Now, I may get booed more since the expectations are higher on me, and I can’t fulfil that. And I will definitely feel good if I can perform. I will try to do well for the country. Expectations aren’t built in a day. Maybe I built that to people by performing. There is no way to go back. I hope I can give my 100%.

Can you tell us your favorite batting position?

Look, I don’t think there has been a single player like me who has been shuffled this much in the Bangladesh team. The amount of experiments done on me… I don’t think there are a lot of players who have faced that. Don’t you think I should settle in a specific position? Then I can perform well, and the team will be benefited. In the West Indies tour, you’ll see, we probably didn’t win the series, but we put up a fighting score on the board. We scored 300+, 290. It was beneficial for me and the team also. That’s a different issue that we couldn’t win.

Do you feel you are unlucky as far as having a permanent batting position is concerned?

Not about luck, it’s more about a decision by the management. But yeah, I am at fault too because I never said ‘no’ for the sake of the team. I guess it will not be good for me or for the team if further experiments are done.

If you ask me, yes, number four in ODIs suits you?

I did well in the four innings, three 70+ scores out of those four innings in that position. Yeah, I might fail at times. But that doesn’t mean I can’t do well there. I have proved wherever I was asked to play. Now, I think a decision should be taken, and I have told the management that it probably is better to settle me in a specific position.

If you ask me, yes number four will be good for me because I will get time there. I know how to play in that position. Mushfiqur bhai helped me a lot, and he is the one who played at number four for a long time. He is among the top batters in that position for Bangladesh, scoring a lot of runs during the last seven to eight years that he batted there. I have talked with him on how to play there. I think I have adjusted there well.

You did well at seven or eight also in ODIs…

I have played at number eight for seven to eight years. I probably played 1-1.5 years at number five when Shakib bhai didn’t play. I know the pattern there, how to finish a match. I won a few matches at number eight, one against India. I had a partnership with Afif (against Afghanistan) at number eight. The way of play is different there. If you are in danger, in that case, you’ll have support, but if not, then there’s no work to do at number eight. If I can play up the order, it’s not like I want it so I will get it. It’s the decision of the team management. You have to give a chance to a player. If I fail in two-three matches up at the order, it doesn’t mean I can’t do it there. You have to give time to be stable in a position.

Do you think your willingness to accept any role has contributed to your current situation?

I can never say ‘no.’ That’s my problem. I don’t know why it happens. It’s not only in my cricketing life, but it is the same case in my personal life as well. I can’t say ‘no.’ Now it’s time to come to a decision. I have already spoken with my coach, captain, and the President. I let them know my opinion. They will give feedback now, or they will think about it.

Some believe there’s a competition between you and Najmul Hossain for the captaincy. Do you see it that way?

We’ve been together since U-15 days. Not only one U-19 World Cup, he played under me for 7-8 years. Someone has to have the ‘captain’ title to march everything on the field, but it’s all about a team game. And there’s nothing bigger than the country. He’s my friend, but I have to respect his position. Tamim bhai once said something in the dressing room which I liked. He especially told me that everyone wants to do captaincy because it’s a different experience and environment, but at the same time, everyone should respect the captain’s position. Even if there’s disagreement or anything, there shouldn’t be any bad blood. He probably told this from his experience. That was important because Shanto is my friend, and I have a very good understanding with him. This is totally a misconception. When I was his captain, he helped me.

How difficult will it be for spinners in the Champions Trophy?

Very difficult for spinners, and I have to take mental preparations beforehand. Pakistan will be very challenging. But I’ve got experience of playing Tests there in Rawalpindi, which will help. I got some idea of how the wicket behaves there. I have experience playing in Dubai well. Hopefully, these will help.

Also Read : USA Thrash Namibia by 70 Runs Despite Scholtz’s Five-Wicket Haul

The 2013 Champions Trophy final between India and England remains etched in the memories of fans, with Dhoni’s inspired captaincy playing a pivotal role in India’s triumph. Ravichandran Ashwin, who was part of that victorious squad, recently shared an insightful anecdote about Dhoni’s remarkable leadership on JioHotstar’s ‘Unbeaten: Dhoni’s Dynamites.’

Ashwin recalled a key moment in the final when Dhoni provided him with a tactical suggestion that would prove decisive. The India captain instructed Ashwin to bowl from around the wicket to Jonathan Trott, anticipating that the English batsman would try to play on the leg side. Dhoni’s prediction came to fruition when Trott was stumped after attempting to flick a delivery that spun down the leg side. Ashwin expressed his disbelief at how Dhoni had foreseen the outcome, emphasizing the depth of his cricketing acumen.

The 2013 final, which had been shortened to a 20-over-per-side match due to rain, saw India post a modest 129/7, largely thanks to Virat Kohli’s quick-fire 43 runs. Despite a strong stand between Eoin Morgan and Ravi Bopara, it was Dhoni’s quick thinking and leadership that ensured India held on to their nerve. Ishant Sharma’s remarkable comeback in the final overs was another key moment that helped secure India’s victory at Edgbaston.

As India prepares for the 2025 edition of the Champions Trophy, the impact of Dhoni’s leadership continues to resonate. With the tournament just around the corner, it is clear that the team will miss Dhoni’s influence in the dugout as they aim for another title.

Patidar, a 31-year-old middle-order batter, takes over the leadership reins from Faf du Plessis, who was released by the franchise following the conclusion of the previous season. With this appointment, Patidar becomes the eighth player to lead RCB in the history of the IPL.

A New Chapter for RCB

The decision to appoint Patidar marks a fresh direction for the Royal Challengers, a franchise historically led by stalwarts like Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis. Kohli, who captained the team from 2012 to 2021, remains one of the most iconic leaders in IPL history, guiding RCB to playoff appearances in 2015, 2020, and 2021, including a runners-up finish in 2016. Du Plessis, who took over the captaincy in 2022, also led the team to two playoff appearances in the 2022-24 cycle.

Patidar’s elevation to the captaincy role reflects RCB’s intent to build around younger, dynamic leaders. His recent leadership experience includes guiding Madhya Pradesh to the final of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy earlier this season, showcasing his tactical acumen and ability to inspire teams.

Patidar’s Journey with RCB

Patidar made his IPL debut with RCB in 2021 and quickly established himself as a reliable middle-order batter. Known for his ability to dominate both pace and spin, he has scored 799 runs in 27 matches at an impressive strike rate of 158.85.

Despite being released ahead of the 2022 season and going unsold at the auctions, Patidar returned to RCB as a replacement player following an injury to Luvinth Sisodia. He seized the opportunity, scoring 333 runs in just 8 innings, including a memorable century. Since then, he has been an integral part of the squad and was retained for INR 11 crore ahead of the mega auctions, alongside Virat Kohli and Yash Dayal.

Why Patidar?

Patidar’s rise to the captaincy is a testament to his consistency, temperament, and match-winning abilities. His century under pressure during the 2022 season demonstrated his composure on the big stage, qualities that make him a strong candidate to lead the side.

Moreover, his leadership credentials were further solidified when he successfully led Madhya Pradesh in domestic cricket. Patidar’s ability to remain calm under pressure and his knack for making smart decisions align perfectly with RCB’s vision for the upcoming season.

A Fresh Start for RCB

With Patidar at the helm, RCB will look to shed their tag of perennial underachievers and finally lift the coveted IPL trophy. The franchise has consistently reached the playoffs in recent years but has fallen short of clinching the title.

Under Patidar’s leadership, RCB will aim to build a balanced team capable of delivering consistent performances. His partnership with senior players like Virat Kohli and emerging talents like Yash Dayal will be crucial in shaping the team’s fortunes.

Looking Ahead

As the IPL 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Rajat Patidar and his leadership style. Can he guide RCB to their maiden IPL title? Will his aggressive batting and calm demeanor translate into success on the field? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: RCB fans have a new leader to rally behind, and Patidar’s journey promises to be an exciting one.

More updates on RCB’s strategy and squad composition are expected in the coming weeks as the IPL season draws nearer. Stay tuned!

Also Read : UP Warriorz Ready to Spin Their Way to Success Under Deepti Sharma

Afghanistan has suffered a significant setback ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy as their rising star, mystery spinner AM Ghazanfar, has been ruled out of the tournament due to a serious injury. The 18-year-old right-arm offspinner, who was set to replace Mujeeb Ur Rahman in the squad, sustained a fracture in his L4 vertebra during Afghanistan’s recent tour of Zimbabwe.

According to a statement released by the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) on Wednesday, Ghazanfar will be sidelined for a minimum of four months and will remain under treatment during this period. This injury not only rules him out of the Champions Trophy but also dashes his hopes of making his debut in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he recently secured a lucrative contract with Mumbai Indians worth INR 4.8 crores.

Mujeeb Ur Rahman, who played the full SA20 season with Paarl Royals earlier this year, was initially excluded from Afghanistan’s Champions Trophy squad. However, concerns over his fitness following previous injuries meant he was not reconsidered for selection.

Replacement and Squad Adjustments

Left-arm spinner Nangeyalia Kharote, who was part of the reserve list, has now been promoted to the main squad. Kharote last featured for Afghanistan during the ODI series against Bangladesh in Sharjah in November last year.

Afghanistan’s spin-heavy squad for the Champions Trophy now includes Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Mohammad Nabi, and Kharote, ensuring they remain a formidable force despite the absence of Ghazanfar.

Impact on Ghazanfar’s Career

The injury is a major blow for the young spinner, who had quickly risen through the ranks and established himself as one of Afghanistan’s most promising talents. His exclusion from both the Champions Trophy and IPL could delay his development on the international stage, though the ACB has assured that he will receive the necessary medical care to ensure a full recovery.

Afghanistan’s Champions Trophy Squad

Hashmatullah Shahidi (C), Rahmat Shah (VC), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK), Ikram Alikhil (WK), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, Nangeyalia Kharote, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveed Zadran, and Farid Ahmad Malik.

As Afghanistan prepares for the marquee tournament, fans will be hoping the team can overcome this setback and deliver strong performances despite the absence of one of their brightest young stars.

Also Read : Sarwar Imran Appointed as Bangladesh Women’s Head Coach, Replacing Hashan Tillakaratne

Aiming for Consistency

Fielding lapses, inconsistent power-hitting, and ineffective bowling have plagued the Warriorz in previous seasons. With Deepti taking charge at the elite level, the team hopes to execute strategies more effectively and maintain consistency throughout the tournament.

Auction Strategy & Key Additions

Rather than making major changes, UP Warriorz retained their core squad and made just three additions in the auction. To support lead spinner Sophie Ecclestone and manage her workload, they brought in Australia’s Alana King. They also strengthened their pace and batting options by signing seamer Kranti Goud and batter Arushi Goel.

Strength in Spin

The Warriorz boast one of the most formidable spin attacks in the tournament. With Deepti Sharma, Sophie Ecclestone, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Alana King, and Gouher Sultana, along with part-time options like Chamari Athapaththu and Grace Harris, they have the depth to dominate on slow pitches.

Road Ahead

The team starts their campaign with five crucial matches in Vadodara and Bengaluru before playing three games in Lucknow, where their spin strength could be a game-changer. Early momentum will be key to their success this season.

Can Deepti Sharma lead UP Warriorz to their best WPL finish yet? The answer lies in their ability to execute plans with precision and consistency.

Also Read : Jadeja’s Return to ODI Cricket: The Role of Ranji Bowling in His Seamless Transition