Top 5 Potential Replacements for Injured Pat Cummins in SRH Squad for IPL 2025

Australia has been dealt a major blow ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, with captain Pat Cummins ruled out due to an ankle injury he sustained during the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). His absence weakens Australia’s squad and puts Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in a difficult position for the IPL 2025 season.

Cummins, who captained SRH in IPL 2024, led the team to the final, showcasing his leadership skills and all-round ability. With the IPL kicking off on March 21, just two weeks after the Champions Trophy, his availability remains highly uncertain. SRH must now explore backup options to fill the void left by their captain.

Here are the top five potential replacements of Cummins SRH that could be considered for the upcoming IPL 2025 season.

1. Jason Behrendorff

One of the strongest contenders to replace Cummins is Australian pacer Jason Behrendorff. The left-arm quick had an outstanding Big Bash League (BBL) season, finishing as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker with 17 wickets in 10 matches.

Behrendorff is known for his ability to swing the ball both ways, making him a valuable asset with the new ball. His previous IPL experience with Mumbai Indians in 2019 and 2023 also adds to his appeal. In 17 IPL matches, he has picked up 19 wickets, proving his effectiveness on Indian pitches.

2. Riley Meredith

Another Australian pacer who could step in is Riley Meredith, known for his express pace and ability to hit speeds beyond 140 kmph consistently. He had a stellar BBL season, where he finished as the third-highest wicket-taker with 16 wickets in 10 matches.

Meredith’s ability to bowl sharp bouncers and execute precise yorkers makes him an ideal choice, especially in the death overs, where his variations can be crucial. His previous IPL stints with Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians have given him valuable experience in subcontinental conditions.

3. Kyle Jamieson

If SRH wants an all-round option, Kyle Jamieson could be suitable. The 6’8″ Kiwi pacer brings extra bounce and can generate pace off the surface, making him a threat in IPL conditions.

Although he had a moderate IPL stint with RCB in 2021, where he picked up 9 wickets in 9 matches, he has found his rhythm again. In the current Super Smash season, he has taken 14 wickets in 12 games at an impressive economy of 5.95, proving he is back in top form.

4. Will O’Rourke

New Zealand’s Will O’Rourke might have gone unsold at the IPL 2025 auction, but SRH could reconsider him as a replacement option. The 23-year-old pacer delivered an impressive performance in New Zealand’s Test series against India, picking up 7 wickets in 3 matches at an average of 18.43.

O’Rourke is currently playing in the Super Smash, where he has grabbed 8 wickets in 9 games. His tall frame and high-arm action allow him to extract extra bounce and trouble batters, making him an interesting pick for SRH.

5. Naveen-ul-Haq

If SRH wants a T20 specialist, Afghanistan’s Naveen-ul-Haq could be a brilliant addition. With plenty of experience in franchise cricket, Naveen has a proven track record of delivering in pressure situations.

His ability to bowl effective slower balls, mix up his variations, and strike at key moments makes him a solid option for the middle and death overs. His familiarity with subcontinent conditions gives him an edge over other choices.

With Cummins’ recovery timeline uncertain, Sunrisers Hyderabad faces a crucial decision on finding his replacement. Whether they opt for a raw pace bowler like Meredith, an experienced campaigner like Behrendorff, or an emerging talent like O’Rourke, SRH has multiple options.

With IPL betting apps users keeping a close eye on player performances, SRH’s choice could also impact IPL predictions and betting strategies. Cummins’ absence will be felt regardless of who they select, and it remains to be seen who will rise to the occasion in IPL 2025.

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