In a mid-season twist in IPL 2025, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) owner Kavya Maran has made a tactical buy by signing 21-year-old Karnataka batter Smaran Ravichandran for ₹30 lakh. This move is as a cover for injured Australian leg-spinner Adam Zampa, who has been ruled out of action because of a shoulder injury.

A Rising Star from Karnataka

Talented Karnataka left-hander Smaran Ravichandran is making waves in domestic cricket. Though he failed to get any bid at the IPL 2025 mega auction, his solid run of form hasn't gone unnoticed by the franchises. Of special mention are their match-winning hundred in the Vijay Hazare Trophy final and high-scoring in the Ranji Trophy, which saw him play a double century against Punjab.

In the Maharaja Trophy for the Gulbarga Mystics, Smaran scored 302 runs at an average of 43.14 and a striking rate of 145.19. His flexibility as a top-to-middle-order batsman and his elegant way of playing as well as the capability to bat at various speeds make him an asset for the SRH side.

From RCB Nets to SRH Squad

Before this signing, Smaran was in the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) system, impressing coaches at pre-season nets. His move to SRH is a big step in his career, providing him with a platform to express himself on a bigger stage.

SRH's Current Standing and Upcoming Challenge

Sunrisers Hyderabad has had a varied beginning to the season, registering two victories in six games and lying in ninth place on the points table with a Net Run Rate of -1.245. Their best team score this season stands at 286 runs, and the worst at 120 runs. With the next game against Mumbai Indians coming up on April 17, the addition of Smaran might give the team the needed stimulus in their batting department.

Looking Ahead

While it might be challenging for Smaran to secure immediate playing time due to SRH's strong batting lineup, his inclusion adds depth and flexibility to the squad. If given the opportunity, he could emerge as a key player for the team in the latter stages of the tournament