Big Move: Pat Cummins has been appointed as the captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad for the IPL 2024 season.
Pat Cummins has been appointed as the captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad for the upcoming IPL 2024 season, succeeding Aiden Markram, who led the team to a disappointing finish last year. While former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has expressed his acceptance of this decision, he also highlights potential challenges that may arise with Cummins’ leadership. Pathan particularly emphasizes Markram’s successful tenure with the Sunrisers Eastern Cape, which contrasts with SRH’s poor performance in 2023.
The announcement of Cummins as captain comes after he was acquired for a significant sum of INR 20.50 Cr in the auction. With the appointment, SRH aims to revamp its strategy following a lackluster season. Daniel Vettori, the new head coach, has a prior connection with Cummins from the Australian national team and has also brought in James Franklin as part of the coaching staff.
Despite Markram’s success with Sunrisers Eastern Cape, the decision to change leadership stems from Cummins’ recent achievements, including leading Australia to victories in the World Test Championship and the ODI World Cup. Although Cummins previously played for Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL, this marks his first stint as captain in the league.
Pathan raises concerns about Cummins’ suitability for T20 leadership, pointing out his lackluster performance in the format compared to his success in other formats. Additionally, the influx of overseas players, including Cummins, raises questions about team composition and player selection, with Pathan expressing a desire for Wanindu Hasaranga to feature in the Playing XI.
Will Pat Cummins’ captaincy disrupt the team’s balance?
Sunrisers Hyderabad acquired six players during the IPL 2024 auction in December, bringing their total count of overseas players to 8. This roster includes notable names such as Travis Head, Wanindu Hasaranga, Marco Jansen, and Heinrich Klaasen, all well-suited for T20 cricket. With only 4 slots available in the Playing XI and Cummins occupying one as the captain, Pathan questions the selection dilemma.
Should both Cummins and Markram play, Hasaranga may find it challenging to secure a spot in the team. Even Marco Jansen might be benched due to the abundance of overseas players. Consequently, SRH faces numerous lineup issues. Pathan advocates for Hasaranga’s inclusion in the Playing XI but raises doubts about Cummins’ bowling performance, irrespective of his leadership skills.
As the IPL 2016 champions, SRH kick off their campaign against Kolkata Knight Riders, the two-time title holders, on March 23rd.
Must Read: Samsung’s Top-of-the-Line Flagship Smartphone
