IPL 2025: Sunrisers Hyderabad Coach Daniel Vettori Explains Where It All Went Wrong
IPL 2025: SRH Coach Daniel Vettori Reveals Struggles with Pitch Conditions and Team Performance
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SRH head coach Daniel Vettori addresses media after the washout against Delhi Capitals (Image: IPL)
Challenging Pitch Conditions
In IPL 2025, Sunrisers Hyderabad’s (SRH) campaign has taken an unexpected turn, with head coach Daniel Vettori highlighting the significant impact of varying pitch conditions at their home ground. Following a washout against Delhi Capitals (DC), Vettori provided insights into how the team’s ultra-attacking approach, which made them trailblazers in IPL 2024, faced challenges in adapting to this season’s different playing conditions.
Key Statistics: Hyderabad Pitch Analysis
- Only 4 out of 11 innings crossed 200-run mark (compared to 7/12 last year)
- Two surfaces produced 250+ scores
- Four pitches favored fast bowlers
- Changed batting conditions affected team strategy
Team Performance Analysis
The 2025 IPL season has been particularly challenging for SRH, with just three wins in eleven games effectively ending their playoffs hopes. The team’s performance has been a stark contrast to their previous season’s aggressive batting display led by Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma. Vettori emphasized the need for condition assessment and game reading, moving away from a purely aggressive approach.
Strategic Insight: “This season has been about trying to establish what’s been required on the day rather than sticking to a fixed approach,” explains Vettori, highlighting the team’s attempts to adapt to varying conditions.
Bowling Strategy and Changes
A significant tactical shift in SRH’s approach has been evident in their bowling department. Pat Cummins, taking the new ball responsibilities, demonstrated exceptional skill with figures of 3/19 in their latest match. The decision to leave out Mohammed Shami, who struggled with six wickets in nine games at an economy rate of 11.23, reflects the team’s adaptation to the conditions.
Performance Update: Pat Cummins has claimed 13 wickets in 11 matches this season, maintaining an average of 27.92 and an economy rate of 9.15.
Match Summary and Standings
The washout against Delhi Capitals came at a crucial juncture, with SRH having reduced DC to 133/7. Notable performances from DC’s Tristan Stubbs (41* off 36) and Ashutosh Sharma (41 off 26) had set up an interesting chase before rain intervened. The result leaves DC in fifth position with 13 points, while SRH remains eighth with seven points.
Looking Ahead: Despite the disappointing season, Vettori remains focused on the remaining matches, emphasizing the importance of complete performances and better adaptation to conditions for future success.
As IPL 2025 enters its final phase, SRH’s experience this season serves as a valuable lesson in the importance of adaptability in T20 cricket. The team’s journey highlights how changing pitch conditions can significantly impact a team’s strategy and success, requiring constant evaluation and adjustment of approach rather than relying on a single successful formula.
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