Nitish Kumar Reddy: Key Player for Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL 2026

As the IPL 2026 season approaches, former all-rounder Irfan Pathan highlights Nitish Kumar Reddy's potential role as a key player for Sunrisers Hyderabad. With the team set to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Reddy aims to rebound from a challenging previous season. The absence of captain Pat Cummins due to injury adds another layer of complexity, with Ishan Kishan stepping up to lead the team. This article delves into the dynamics of SRH's lineup and the expectations for the upcoming season, making it a must-read for cricket fans.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 23, 2026, 14:20 IST

Nitish Kumar Reddy: The Essential Player for SRH

Irfan Pathan, a former Indian all-rounder, believes that Nitish Kumar Reddy could serve as the crucial 'glue' for the aggressive Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the upcoming IPL 2026 season. The team is set to kick off their campaign against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on March 28. While the spotlight is on a formidable batting lineup featuring Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan, Heinrich Klaasen, and Liam Livingstone, Reddy, who earned the 'Emerging Player' award in 2024, is looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2025 season.

In a discussion on his YouTube channel, Pathan remarked, "If he fulfills his role effectively, he can be the cohesive force in this otherwise highly aggressive unit. It will be intriguing to see how Hyderabad navigates this challenge."

A Comparison of Seasons

Reddy's performance saw a significant decline last season compared to 2024. In 2024, he amassed over 300 runs with a commendable strike rate, but in 2025, his runs plummeted to around 180, and his strike rate fell to approximately 119. Notably, he batted in the top order, with around seven of his eleven innings coming at the number four position, yet he failed to make the most of these opportunities.

During the 2024 season, he was recognized as the 'Emerging Player of the Season,' scoring 303 runs in 11 innings, including two fifties, at a strike rate of 143, while also taking three wickets. In contrast, last season, he could only manage 182 runs in 13 matches, averaging 22.75 with a strike rate near 119, and his highest score was just 32, alongside two wickets.

The Impact of Pat Cummins' Absence

Pathan also highlighted the absence of SRH's captain, Pat Cummins, who will miss the initial matches of IPL due to injuries. His leadership, which has been pivotal in instilling aggression within the team, will be sorely missed.

"His absence will undoubtedly affect game management. Young players often seek guidance from senior teammates during pressure situations. Not having Cummins in the dressing room at the start will be challenging for Hyderabad," he stated.

"Cummins' absence is a significant factor. His bowling and captaincy have always been exceptional, and his leadership is frequently praised. Last season, he matched Harshal Patel with 16 wickets and previously took 18 wickets in a season. His batting is also crucial; when he comes in at number eight, he can hit big shots, and the aggression in Hyderabad's play has largely stemmed from his leadership," he added.

Ishan Kishan to Step Up as Captain

Pathan discussed Ishan Kishan's rising profile, especially after leading Jharkhand to victory in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) with 517 runs in 10 matches, including two centuries and two fifties. This performance earned him a return to Team India and a T20 World Cup title, where he scored 317 runs with three fifties, and now he will captain SRH in Cummins' absence.

Pathan emphasized that the responsibility now rests on Kishan, who he believes is a better choice than Abhishek Sharma, who has also captained Punjab.

"With Pat Cummins unavailable, Ishan Kishan will take on the captaincy. His performance trajectory is impressive. Leading Jharkhand to the trophy in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy showcases his capabilities. Now, the onus is on him," he noted.

"His outstanding performances in the World Cup further bolster his confidence, making him a sensible choice for captaincy. Although there were talks of Abhishek Sharma being appointed captain, Ishan Kishan is the better option," he concluded.