Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are set to retain South African power-hitter Heinrich Klaasen as their top player ahead of IPL 2025. Klaasen, who will earn INR 23 crore (approximately US$2.74 million), has been a key asset for SRH, with a significant rise in value reflecting his reputation as one of the best T20 finishers. SRH will also retain Australian allrounder and captain Pat Cummins for INR 18 crore (approximately US$2.14 million), along with India allrounder Abhishek Sharma for INR 14 crore (approximately US$1.67 million).
Cummins, who led SRH to the final in IPL 2024, will continue as captain in 2025. His leadership, alongside coach Daniel Vettori, has been crucial in reviving SRH after three underwhelming seasons. Cummins’ contract reflects a 12.2% reduction from his 2024 price, but his role in the team remains pivotal. Abhishek, who formed a devastating opening partnership with Travis Head, also enjoyed a stellar season, earning him a 115% increase in his value.
Klaasen’s retention comes after two successful seasons with SRH, during which he amassed 927 runs at a strike rate of 174. Abhishek, too, has been impressive, with 484 runs in IPL 2024 at a strike rate of 204.21, making him one of the highest strike rate batters in T20 cricket this year.
SRH expects to retain Travis Head and Nitish Kumar Reddy, with the retention deadline set for October 31 ahead of the mega auction later this year. If they finalize these five retentions, SRH will have one Right-to-Match (RTM) card available at the auction, usable for an uncapped Indian player.
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