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The Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) franchise has solidified its roster for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) seasons by retaining five key players, including the talented Travis Head and Nitish Reddy. This strategic move ensures the continuation of a core group that contributed significantly to their strong performance last season, where they finished as runners-up behind the Kolkata Knight Riders.
Travis Head, the Australian batsman, has been retained for a hefty sum of INR 14 crore, marking a significant increase from his previous price of INR 6.80 crore. Head's impact last season was undeniable, forming a formidable opening partnership with Abhishek Sharma and smashing a total of 567 runs in 15 games at an impressive strike rate of 191.5. His ability to consistently score runs at a rapid pace will be crucial for SRH's success in the upcoming seasons.
Joining Head in the list of retained players is Nitish Kumar Reddy, the rising Indian all-rounder. Reddy, who made his India debut earlier this month, has been retained for INR 6 crore. While his initial price under BCCI regulations was Rs 4 crore for uncapped players, his recent international recognition has elevated his value. The selectors view Reddy as a potential successor to the highly successful Hardik Pandya, highlighting his immense talent and potential.
The retention of these two players complements SRH's existing core, which includes the experienced Pat Cummins, the explosive Heinrich Klaasen, and the promising Abhishek Sharma. This group has proven its ability to perform at a high level and will be crucial for SRH's ambitions in the upcoming seasons. The franchise has invested a total of INR 75 crore in these retentions, showcasing their commitment to building a competitive squad.
Looking ahead, SRH still has INR 45 crore in their purse to further strengthen their squad. Additionally, they have one Right To Match (RTM) card, which allows them to match the highest bid for an uncapped player in the upcoming auction. This flexibility provides SRH with the opportunity to add more talent and depth to their roster, ensuring they are well-equipped to compete for the IPL title.
The retention of Head and Reddy is a significant move for SRH, solidifying their commitment to building a strong and consistent team. Their impressive performances last season, coupled with their potential for future growth, make them valuable assets to the franchise. With a balanced squad and a strategic approach, SRH is poised to be a formidable force in the upcoming IPL seasons.
Source: SRH add Travis Head, Nitish Reddy to complete five retentions