2019 IPL auction: What strategies should SRH use?
What's the story
Indian Premier League (IPL) outfit Sunrisers Hyderabad look like a solid unit after they kept a strong base. Most importantly, they have David Warner back to lead them once again. They were forced to trade Shikhar Dhawan, but SRH will look to replace him by a strong performer. SRH released 8 players and retained 17. They trade in three players. Here's our analysis.
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How does the auction look for SRH?
SRH can choose only two foreigners and three Indians. Therefore, besides a keeper-batsman, they might just look to add another batsman to get that cushion. Perhaps, an Indian domestic player could do them good. They have Rs. 9.70 crore to spend.
Batting
How is SRH's batting line-up looking?
SRH have the talented Kane Williamson in their ranks. Last season, the Kiwi international amassed 735 runs and was the top run-getter. He will open the innings once again with Australia's Warner. They have Manish Pandey, Yusuf Pathan and Ricky Bhui as options in the middle order. Then there are all-rounders Deepak Hooda and Shakib Al Hasan to add depth.
Option
SRH need a genuine wicket-keeper batsman
SRH need to add depth to their batting. They need a wicket-keeper batsman in particular after releasing Wirddhiman Saha. Therefore, that position will be the prime focus. England's Jonny Bairstow could be a pivotal option. Then there is Bangladesh's Mushfiqur Rahim, who is a solid hand. South Africa's Heinrich Klaasen is also an option to add the finishing touch.
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SRH have their base covered in all-round options
SRH have some sturdy all-rounders. Shakib is the best bet and will play a crucial role once again. Pathan and Hooda are utility options and can come in and do the job. Mohammad Nabi is another crucial squad player. Then there is Vijay Shankar.
Bowlers
SRH have the best bowling line-up
If one thing that sets SRH apart from other teams, it has to be their bowling. They have quality written all over and there is a big pool to choose from. Rashid Khan is their lead spinner. They also got in Shahbaz Nadeem in the IPL trade window, Their pace attack is superb and have the desired threats to hurt teams.
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SRH unlikely to add any bowler
The options for SRH in pace are, Basil Thampi, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Billy Stanlake, Sandeep Sharma, Siddarth Kaul and Khaleel Ahmed. Therefore, it is unlikely they will add anymore players in their bowling both in pace and spin.