Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa has said that although Sunrisers Hyderabad’s aggressive batting is entertaining to watch, batting like that would not help them win the Indian Premier League, adding
that it would be a tough job for their bowlers to adjust on their home turf, where runs are scored aplenty.
Uthappa highlighted that Sunrisers Hyderabad’s bowling attack is not suited to the flat tracks at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, where wicket-taking options are crucial.
The 2016 champions were exposed last season, struggling to break stands or control matches with the ball. Despite a power-packed batting lineup, their dependence on big scores could not mask bowling flaws, costing them a playoff spot.
Uthappa weighed in on Sunrisers Hyderabad’s approach, lauding their fearless batting but questioning its sustainability over a full season. He emphasised that their home conditions demand a stronger bowling unit, warning that batting firepower alone would not be enough to win the title.
“SRH’s aggressive batting is entertaining to watch. But batting like that would not help them win the IPL. Their bowling is a bit on the weaker side. Bowlers are the ones who make you win the trophy,” Uthappa said while speaking on JioHotstar.
“In Hyderabad, where they play seven matches, the pitch is a batting paradise. It is a super belter wicket,” Uthappa added.
Continuing his assessment, he pointed to former Sunrisers Hyderabad pacers Mohammed Shami and Bhuvneshwar Kumar to underline his argument, noting that even seasoned bowlers have struggled on Hyderabad’s flat pitches.
Uthappa added that bowlers like Bhuvneshwar, who rely on variations and control, are better suited to such conditions, an edge he believes SRH’s current attack lacks.
“Even someone like Mohammed Shami couldn’t be penetrative on those flat wickets. You need a bowler like Bhuvneshwar Kumar. He is a very clever guy. He swings the ball, changes pace, bowls yorkers,” Uthappa said.
