IPL 2024: SWOT Analysis of Sunrisers Hyderabad

Sunrisers Hyderabad are determined to turn their fortunes around in the IPL 2024 season after a string of disappointing performances. The acquisition of Pat Cummins, known for his exceptional leadership skills, signals a strategic shift in the team’s approach. With the addition of players like Travis Head and Wanindu Hasaranga, SRH has bolstered their squad with talent and experience.

However, they face challenges such as finding stability in leadership and integrating new players into the team. Nevertheless, SRH has the opportunity to redefine their identity and compete at the highest level. Success in the upcoming season will hinge on effective teamwork, strategic planning, and consistent performance on the field.

See Also: IPL 2024: SWOT Analysis of Gujarat Titans

Strengths

Pace Trio 

Sunrisers Hyderabad is set to benefit from a formidable pace trio in the IPL 2024 season, with the addition of Pat Cummins strengthening their fast-bowling arsenal. In previous editions, the team heavily relied on Bhuvneshwar Kumar, lacking adequate support from other pacers. With Cummins joining forces with Bhuvneshwar and Umran Malik, SRH now boasts a formidable pace attack capable of wreaking havoc on opposition batting line-ups. This trio not only adds depth and variety to the bowling unit but also instills fear in the minds of opposing batters, making SRH a potent force to reckon with in the upcoming season.

Powerful Overseas Batters

Sunrisers Hyderabad has secured the services of Australian stalwart Travis Head in the IPL 2024 auction for a bargain price of INR 6.80 crore. Head’s inclusion adds significant firepower to SRH’s batting lineup, potentially slotting in as an opener alongside Mayank Agarwal. Furthermore, the team boasts the presence of star South African batters Aiden Markram and Heinrich Klaasen in the middle order, known for their aggressive batting styles. With a strong contingent of overseas batters, SRH possesses the batting force to post formidable totals and challenge opposition bowlers in the upcoming IPL season. 

Weaknesses

Out of form Indian Batters

Sunrisers Hyderabad faces a potential weakness in the form of their renowned domestic players, including Abhishek Tripathi, Mayank Agarwal, Abdul Samad, Umran Malik, and Washington Sundar. These players experienced difficulties during recent white-ball competitions such as the 2023-24 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) and the 2023-24 Vijay Hazare Trophy. Their inconsistent performances in these tournaments may raise concerns for the SRH team management.

Opportunities

Overseas Players 

Sunrisers Hyderabad has an opportunity to leverage the consistent performance of their international stalwarts in the upcoming IPL season. Players like Pat Cummins, Travis Head, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen, Glenn Phillips, and Marco Jansen have demonstrated exceptional skills and consistency in various international competitions.

Cummins showcased exemplary leadership during the 2023 World Test Championship and World Cup, while Head, Markram, and Klaasen have been standout performers for their respective national teams. Additionally, Glenn Phillips has shown promise for New Zealand, and Marco Jansen’s all-round abilities have caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts. 

Threats

Proper Use of Players

One of the significant threats faced by Sunrisers Hyderabad is the underutilization of players, as observed in the past seasons. Despite acquiring notable talents like Adil Rashid, Akeil Hosein, and Sean Abbott in previous auctions, SRH failed to provide them with sufficient opportunities on the field.

This trend raises concerns about the team’s ability to effectively manage and integrate new players into their squad. With a plethora of overseas players in their roster for the upcoming season, SRH may encounter challenges in balancing playing time and maximizing the potential of each player. Failure to address this issue could hinder team cohesion and performance during crucial matches in the IPL 2024.