IPL 2025: Clarke Hopes SRH Batter Steps Up and Stays Longer at the Crease

Former Australian cricketer Michael Clarke shared his thoughts on Sunrisers Hyderabad’s (SRH) recent struggles in IPL 2025. He said the team needs one of its batters to step up, stay longer at the crease, and guide the innings. SRH has shown some promise this season, but their batting line-up has failed to deliver consistent performances.

Clarke pointed out that several SRH players have gotten good starts but have not turned them into big scores. He believes that someone from the top or middle order needs to take responsibility and bat deep into the innings.

“SRH needs a player to take charge and stay at the crease longer. When a batter builds a strong innings, it helps the whole team. It gives other players confidence and sets up a solid total,” Clarke said during a post-match discussion.

SRH has lost a few matches this season because they couldn’t finish well with the bat. Their middle order has collapsed under pressure, and they haven’t been able to chase or defend moderate totals. Clarke said that one solid partnership could make all the difference.

“If someone can bat through 15–17 overs, it changes the game. The rest of the team can play freely around them. That’s what SRH needs right now,” he added.

SRH has talented batters like Abhishek Sharma, Rahul Tripathi, and Heinrich Klaasen. Clarke believes that one of them must step up and play the anchor role. He said this could turn close games into wins and help SRH climb the points table.

The team still has a few league games left, and every match matters now. Clarke hopes the players will recognize the importance of building longer innings and show more focus at the crease.

“Consistency and smart batting will take SRH forward. They have the skills; they just need to apply themselves better,” Clarke said.

As the playoff race heats up, SRH will look for strong performances from their batters to stay in contention.