Former India opener and seasoned analyst Wasim Jaffer has called on SunRisers Hyderabad’s Nitish Kumar Reddy to show greater maturity with the bat in the ongoing IPL 2025 season. After a breakthrough campaign in 2024, the young all-rounder has had a disappointing start this year, managing just 81 runs across four outings.
His habit of going for expansive shots too early in the innings, especially during critical phases, has come under the scanner. In the recent games against Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders, Nitish’s untimely dismissals — often while trying to slog despite early setbacks — have raised questions about his shot selection and approach.
Wasim Jaffer, speaking on ESPNcricinfo, said the issue isn’t with SRH’s aggressive opening pair of Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head, who remain potent threats. Instead, he believes the middle order — particularly Nitish — must step up when the openers fail.
WATCH – Rinku Singh Reveals Emotional Tattoo Story Linked To Life-Changing KKR IPL Moment
“I wouldn’t change anything about Abhishek and Head. Let them be. Their natural game instills fear in the opposition, and when they fire, SRH look unstoppable,”Wasim Jaffer said. “But Nitish Reddy… he looks rushed. He needs to understand the game situation and not go for risky strokes so early. Same goes for Abhinav Manohar. That No. 3 and No. 4 spot is crucial, especially when the top order doesn’t deliver.”
Jaffer also defended Ishan Kishan, who joined the SRH setup this season. “Ishan’s had some unlucky dismissals despite already scoring a hundred. That happens. But someone like Nitish, if he gives himself 10 to 15 balls, he’s very dangerous. He doesn’t need to go from ball one.”
WATCH – KL Rahul Playfully Reminds Kevin Pietersen Of Old Tweet After Match-Winning Knock
With three consecutive defeats, SRH are under pressure to turn things around. They’ll return to their home turf at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium to face Gujarat Titans on Sunday, April 6, in a must-win clash that could define their early-season trajectory.
