After finishing last in the IPL 2023, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) underwent a major overhaul in the IPL 2024 auction, making strategic signings to reinforce their squad. The marquee acquisition of Australia’s World Cup-winning captain, Pat Cummins, for a staggering INR 20.50 crore, has added a new dimension to the team. As SRH aims for redemption in the upcoming season, the team composition looks promising, and the addition of Travis Head further strengthens their batting. Here’s an in-depth look at SRH’s strongest playing XI for IPL 2024.
1. Travis Head: The aggressive Aussie, signed for Rs 6.80 crore, is set to open the innings for SRH. With a reputation for attacking play, Head will provide the team with a solid start.
2. Mayank Agarwal: Despite an ordinary season in 2023, Agarwal aims for a resurgence in the upcoming season, eyeing a place in the Indian team. SRH will rely on his explosive batting at the top order.
3. Rahul Tripathi: Bought for INR 8.50 crore in the 2022 auction, Tripathi looks to fulfill expectations in the new season. The former KKR batter brings experience and firepower to the middle order.
4. Aiden Markram: Retaining his place in the playing XI, Markram may relinquish the captaincy but remains crucial for his batting prowess. SRH hopes for a more impactful contribution from the South African.
5. Heinrich Klaasen (wk): A standout performer in the forgetful 2023 season, Klaasen scored 448 runs in 12 matches. Operating as a wicketkeeper-batter, he adds depth to the lineup.
6. Washington Sundar: Returning from a hamstring injury that ruled him out in 2023, Sundar, the spin-bowling all-rounder, adds variety to the team. His ability to bowl in the powerplay and contribute with the bat makes him a valuable asset.
7. Shahbaz Ahmed: Acquired in a trade deal with RCB, Ahmed’s all-round capabilities make him a key player. He aims to replicate his successful stints with RCB in the SRH colors.
8. Pat Cummins (c): The most expensive buy at INR 20.50 crore, Cummins is not only expected to lead the team but also contribute significantly with both bat and ball. Despite missing the 2023 season, his international success adds a new leadership dimension to SRH.
9. Bhuvneshwar Kumar: A two-time Purple Cap winner and SRH’s all-time leading wicket-taker, Bhuvneshwar Kumar operates with the new ball, bringing experience and skill to the pace attack.
10. Umran Malik: After a stellar 2022 season, Malik aims for a strong comeback. Known for his express pace, he adds firepower to SRH’s pace battery.
11. T Natarajan: The death-over specialist for SRH, Natarajan’s ability to bowl yorkers makes him a crucial part of the pace attack.
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Impact Players and Backups
– Impact Players: Abhishek Sharma, Mayank Markande, Abdul Samad, Anmolpreet Singh, Jaydev Unadkat, and Akash Singh are expected to play key roles in specific situations.
– Backups: SRH retained Glenn Phillips, Marco Jansen, and Fazalhaq Farooqi. Sri Lankan spinner Wanindu Hasaranga, signed for INR 1.50 crore, provides depth in spin options but may have limited opportunities due to overseas player restrictions.