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Not Abhishek Sharma! Ex-PBKS Coach Advices Nitish Reddy 'Not To Rush' And Pick Form

Soumyajit Dutta

Nitish Reddy [Source: AP Photos]Nitish Reddy [Source: AP Photos]

Sunrisers Hyderabad’s dismal start to IPL 2025, with three losses in four matches, has sparked calls for tactical adjustments. Former India batter Wasim Jaffer believes the struggling franchise’s fortunes hinge not on underperforming openers Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma but on all-rounder Nitish Reddy refining his approach. 

Promoted to No. 4 this season, Reddy has managed scores of 30, 32, 0, and 19, for his team, ultimately  failing to convert starts into match-winning contributions.

Wasim Jaffer Comments On SRH And Reddy's Approach

While Head and Abhishek have also struggled to replicate last year’s explosive form, Jaffer argues their high-risk style remains vital to SRH’s identity. 

Jaffer pinpointed Nitish Reddy’s hurried shot selection as a fixable flaw, urging the youngster to balance aggression with stability. Backing the openers’ intent despite inconsistent returns, Jaffer acknowledges their power. 

“I won’t be telling them (Head and Abhishek) anything. I’ll, in fact, tell them to be themselves. That’s what worked for them. They put fear into the opposition bowlers, so you don’t want to tamper with that. They are very dangerous, and you know if they come off, SRH are very dangerous when the openers strike.”

Nitish Reddy’s “Rushed” Approach Under Jaffer's Scanner

Wasim Jaffer however, emphasized Reddy’s need to settle before unleashing his power as Hyderabad can use him as an anchor in case the top order fails.

“I will probably be telling Nitish Reddy. I think he is looking a little too rushed. He is playing high-risk options, even Abhinav Manohar for that matter. If those openers do not strike, there is an opportunity for the No. 3 and No. 4. Nitish Reddy can take his time; he is very dangerous when he plays 10, 12, 15 balls.”

SRH Looking To Find Form

Hyderabad faces Gujarat Titans on Sunday, April 6 aiming to revive their campaign. The Titans, with two wins in three games, pose a stern challenge. 

For SRH, balancing firepower with composure, especially in Reddy’s role, could determine if they claw back into contention or sink deeper into crisis.