5 Essential Changes for Sunrisers Hyderabad After IPL 2025 Struggles

Sunrisers Hyderabad's IPL 2025 Journey

Entering IPL 2025 with high hopes, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), last season's runners-up, boasted a formidable batting lineup and an aggressive approach. With significant signings like Ishan Kishan, they aimed to consistently surpass the 300-run mark. Their season opener hinted at this potential, as they scored an impressive 286 runs against Rajasthan Royals.

Unfortunately, this initial promise quickly diminished, leading to a disappointing campaign characterized by inconsistency. With only three wins in their first ten matches, SRH finds itself on the brink of playoff elimination.

Factors Behind SRH's Decline

Several issues contributed to SRH's downfall: underwhelming performances from key openers Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma, a faltering middle order featuring Ishan Kishan and Heinrich Klaasen, and a bowling attack that lacked effectiveness, particularly in spin. Captain Pat Cummins struggled to lead effectively, and the absence of dependable Indian pacers and quality spinners exposed significant flaws in their strategy. As they look ahead to IPL 2026, SRH must take immediate corrective actions. Here are five crucial changes they need to implement following a disappointing IPL 2025 season.

5 Essential Changes for SRH 1. Reassess Ishan Kishan's Role

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Ishan Kishan was expected to transform SRH's fortunes following his record acquisition. His century in the first match of IPL 2025 raised expectations, but his performance declined sharply throughout the season, finishing with only 196 runs at a disappointing average of 24.50 over ten matches. As a wicketkeeper-batsman, he failed to stabilize the innings or deliver the explosive finishes SRH desperately needed. His strike rate dropped significantly, indicating a lack of confidence and fluency.

Kishan's inability to rotate the strike and build partnerships further weakened SRH's already fragile middle order. Additionally, his wicketkeeping errors proved costly in crucial matches. SRH must now decide whether to retain Kishan or seek a more consistent alternative, either domestic or international. If they choose to keep him, he will require a clearly defined role and guidance to regain his aggressive yet composed playing style.

2. Improve Heinrich Klaasen's Consistency

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Heinrich Klaasen was a standout performer for SRH in IPL 2024, amassing 479 runs at an impressive strike rate of 171.07. He served as a finisher and a reliable presence in tense situations. However, his form in 2025 has not matched expectations; while he has scored 311 runs, his strike rate has dropped to 153.96, lacking the match-winning reliability he previously displayed. Despite some flashy innings, Klaasen's inconsistency has left the middle order vulnerable.

SRH relied on him to stabilize the innings during early wickets, but his struggles against pressure and spin bowling in the middle overs have exposed weaknesses. Klaasen remains a strong candidate for retention, but he needs a defined role, either as a power-hitter at No. 5 or as an anchor at No. 4. His performance is also influenced by the stability of the batting lineup around him, making it crucial for SRH to help him regain his finishing prowess.

3. Foster Confidence in Youngster Nitish Reddy

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Nitish Reddy showed promise in IPL 2024, scoring 303 runs at a strike rate of 142.92 and was seen as a rising star capable of bolstering the Indian middle order. Unfortunately, his performance in 2025 has been disappointing, with only 173 runs in ten matches, a strike rate of 120.14, and no half-centuries. His average of 24.71 reflects the inconsistency plaguing his game.

To support Reddy's development, SRH must provide clarity regarding his role, whether as a floater or a dependable No. 4. Frequent changes in batting positions may have disrupted his rhythm and confidence. Investing time in mentorship could unlock his potential, making him a cornerstone for SRH's batting lineup in the future.

4. Rethink Heinrich Klaasen's Role as Wicketkeeper

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While Klaasen is an aggressive batsman, making him the primary wicketkeeper has negatively impacted both his batting and fielding performance. In IPL 2024, he thrived by focusing solely on batting, but in 2025, juggling both roles seems to have hindered his overall contributions. His wicketkeeping has suffered, leading to missed stumpings and catches that proved costly.

Employing a dedicated wicketkeeper would relieve Klaasen of pressure and enhance team balance. If SRH continues with two overseas batsmen in Head and Klaasen, they should consider Indian wicketkeepers like KS Bharat or Prabhsimran Singh, who can contribute effectively in the lower middle order. Alternatively, if Ishan Kishan remains, he should take on full-time wicketkeeping duties, allowing Klaasen to focus on his batting strengths.

5. Recruit a Reliable Indian Wicketkeeper for Stability

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A significant gap in SRH's current lineup is the absence of a dependable Indian wicketkeeper who can also contribute as a solid batsman. Relying on foreign keepers like Klaasen limits SRH's flexibility, especially during injuries or form slumps. A homegrown player could provide the necessary stability and balance.

The coaching staff should explore options such as Jitesh Sharma, KS Bharat, or Prabhsimran Singh—players with IPL experience who can deliver impactful performances. Additionally, nurturing young talent through domestic competitions is crucial. A strong Indian wicketkeeper would not only resolve selection dilemmas but also free up an overseas spot for a quality all-rounder or spinner, both of which are areas SRH needs to strengthen ahead of IPL 2026.

Conclusion

The 2025 IPL season has served as a harsh wake-up call for SRH, a franchise once celebrated for its innovative and powerful batting approach. The reasons for their decline stem not from a lack of talent but from a combination of poor strategies, underperformance from key players, and imbalances in team structure, particularly in wicketkeeping and the middle order.

To bounce back, SRH must make decisive choices: redefine player roles, reassess performances, invest in Indian talent, and prioritize flexibility in team selection. The five changes outlined are not just solutions; they are essential for the team's survival and revival.