As per various reports, franchises would be allowed to retain only four players ahead of IPL 2022. The four players could be a combination of two domestic and two overseas cricketers, or three domestic and one overseas player. With two new teams coming in, the RTM card has been disabled so that all franchises start the race from the same line. Winners of IPL 2016 and finalists of IPL 2018, Sunrisers Hyderabad will have problems to address at IPL 2022 Mega Auction. The domestic core of the franchise might need a change. On that note, here is a look at four players whom SRH should retain for IPL 2022.
1) Kane Williamson
David Warner was replaced with Kane Williamson as the captain of the squad in the first phase of IPL 2021. If not anything, this is a clear hint that SRH would retain the Kiwi talisman. It will actually not be a bad idea to have Williamson at the helm of SRH for the future.
In 2018, Williamson almost single-handedly won the IPL for his side. While he won the Orange Cap that year, he also captained well in Warner’s absence. Since then, the popularity of both his captaincy and T20 batsmanship has gone up. Hence, the third-highest run-getter of SRH should be one of the players whom SRH should retain for IPL 2022. Of course, he will be the natural captaincy candidate for the franchise.
2) Rashid Khan
Recently appointed as the T20 captain of the Afghanistan Cricket Team, SRH would make a grave mistake if they do not retain Rashid Khan for IPL 2022. An average of 20.10 and an economy of 6.23 across 69 games is no mean feat in a tournament like IPL. Of course, he has taken 85 wickets during the process.
In most cases, Rashid’s presence in the opposition bowling attack means that you only have 16 overs to bat. Such is the impact of the youngster, as the pressure, he applies also results in others picking wickets. He is also gradually developing his skills with the willow. Just 22 years old, Rashid Khan would be a fine investment for the future.
3) Bhuvneshwar Kumar
Pat Cummins in IPL 2020 auctions in Chris Morris in IPL 2021 auctions have highlighted the strong recent trend in IPL. Bowlers are rated higher than before in the competition. In such an atmosphere, it is wise to retain an experienced and effective pacer, who also comes under the domestic quota.
Other teams would be waiting to have someone like Bhuvi lead their pace attack. Although he is injury-prone, the risk will be worthy if the pacer plays at least ten games in a season. Moreover, he has looked fresh and fit ever since his return to Team India. Therefore, their highest wicket-taker so far is one of the players whom SRH should retain for IPL 2022.
4) T Natarajan
SRH management has relied on a bowling-heavy strategy for the last few seasons. T Natarajan, who had a breakthrough season in IPL 2020, could be one of the members who will fit well in SRH’s environment. He adds variety and depth to the already strong bowling attack of the franchise.
In 2020, the Tamil Nadu pacer collected 16 wickets and made India debut across formats a few months later. Known for his fierce yorkers, Nattu has shown a knack for breaking crucial partnerships. If released to the auctions, his bid could soar in a few minutes. Hence, SRH should consider retaining the left-arm quick for IPL 2022.
