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The Indian Premier League (IPL) is gearing up for the 2025 season with franchises making strategic moves in player retention and coaching appointments. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), the runners-up in the 2024 season, have reportedly finalized their retention plans, aiming to secure the services of key players for the upcoming season.
According to a report by ESPNCricinfo, SRH are set to retain South African batsman Heinrich Klaasen for a hefty sum of Rs 23 crore. Klaasen has been a crucial part of the SRH team, showcasing his prowess with the bat and earning a reputation as a valuable asset in the T20 format. The franchise is also looking to retain Australian all-rounder Pat Cummins for Rs 18 crore, adding another formidable force to their squad. Cummins' bowling expertise and ability to contribute with the bat make him a coveted player in the IPL.
SRH are expected to retain Indian youngster Abhishek Sharma for Rs 14 crore. Sharma's promising performances in the previous season have cemented his place in the team, and he is seen as a key player for the future. Apart from these three players, SRH is also likely to retain Australian batsman Travis Head and Indian all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy. Reddy, an uncapped player in the 2024 season, made his T20I debut for India during the series against Bangladesh, further strengthening his position as a valuable prospect.
Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals (DC) are searching for a new head coach after parting ways with Australian Ricky Ponting. Former India left-hander Hemang Badani is emerging as a strong contender for the role. Badani's experience as a player and his recent work with Brian Lara at Sunrisers Hyderabad make him a suitable candidate for the head coach position. The team is also considering Munaf Patel for a role in the support staff, potentially as a bowling coach.
DC is expected to retain three players: Rishabh Pant for Rs 18 crore, Axar Patel for Rs 14 crore, and Kuldeep Yadav for Rs 11 crore. With the five retention slots costing a total of Rs 75 crore, the franchise is likely to utilize Right To Match (RTM) cards to retain Jake-Fraser McGurk and Tristan Stubbs, two key foreign contributors, if their prices are within their budget.
The search for a new head coach at DC coincides with a change in management, with GMR, one of the co-owners, taking control for the next two years. This shift in management could influence the final decision on the coaching appointment.
The IPL 2025 season promises to be an exciting one, with franchises vying for the title. Player retentions and coaching appointments are crucial aspects of the preparation process, shaping the teams' strategies and chances of success. The next few months will see more developments as franchises finalize their squads and coaches for the upcoming season.