IPL 2025: Pujara Critiques SRH's Batting Strategy
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Synopsis
In IPL 2025, veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara criticized Sunrisers Hyderabad for their aggressive batting approach, which led to a seven-wicket defeat against Delhi Capitals. Pujara emphasized the need for strategic adjustments and consistency in performance.
Key Takeaways
- Pujara critiques SRH's aggressive batting style.
- SRH struggled after a poor start at 37/4.
- Aniket Verma scored a significant 74 runs.
- Importance of a strategic plan B highlighted.
- Ian Bishop advocates for patience in batting.
New Delhi, March 31 (NationPress) Veteran Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara opines that the Sunrisers Hyderabad were overly aggressive and lacked a strategic approach in their batting during their seven-wicket defeat against the Delhi Capitals.
At the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium on Sunday, SRH found themselves at a precarious 37/4. Despite a stunning innings of 74 runs off 41 balls from Aniket Verma, SRH could only muster 163 runs in 18.4 overs, allowing DC to complete the chase with four overs remaining.
“I was genuinely surprised they opted to bat first. In an afternoon match, the pitch tends to slow down, making it a better time to bowl rather than bat. I believe they should have chosen to bowl first. Regarding their batting, they seemed to be too aggressive and not tactical enough,” Pujara told ESPNCricinfo.
He also suggested that SRH should implement a plan B when their overly aggressive strategy falters. “What is the point of your success if you’re only winning two out of ten matches? It’s essential to secure more victories,” he remarked.
“Consistency is crucial. Last season, they performed exceptionally well in the league phase, but if just one match goes awry in the knockouts, it shows a lack of planning,” he added.
Ian Bishop, the former West Indies fast bowler, emphasized that wicketkeeper-batter Heinrich Klaasen should have batted longer, highlighting the need for one player to take their time at the crease instead of attacking from the onset.
“These are lessons I hope they learn, even from players like Pat Cummins, who advocates for a hard-hitting approach. I believe Klaasen should recognize his potential, and if he stays at the crease longer, he can score at a substantial rate,” he stated.
“It’s still early in the season, but SRH must realize that if Aniket is performing well, we should accompany him for as long as possible. It’s not about consolidating for several overs, but rather managing the situation for just a few balls or even an over,” he concluded.
