The excitement surrounding IPL 2026 is reaching fever pitch as teams fine-tune their preparations for the new season. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), one of the most followed franchises in the league, are set to kick off their campaign with a high-voltage clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on March 28 in Bengaluru.
With a revamped squad and renewed ambitions, SRH fans are eagerly waiting to see how their team performs this season. The anticipation is particularly high given the firepower in their lineup, featuring a mix of explosive batters and experienced bowlers. As the countdown begins, discussions around potential match-winners and standout performers have taken centre stage.
Former opener picks top run-getter and leading wicket-taker for SRH
Adding to the pre-season chatter, former India opener Aakash Chopra has shared his predictions for SRH’s key performers in IPL 2026. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra picked Ishan Kishan as the team’s leading run-scorer and Harshal Patel as their highest wicket-taker for the upcoming edition.
“Who could be this team’s highest run-scorer? I would say Ishan Kishan. Highest wicket-taker? I would say Harshal Patel,” Chopra said.
His predictions come despite SRH having multiple proven performers in both departments. Notably, Heinrich Klaasen was the franchise’s leading run-scorer in IPL 2025, amassing 487 runs in a consistent campaign. He was well supported by Abhishek Sharma, who scored 439 runs, and Travis Head, who contributed 374 runs.
Kishan, meanwhile, finished as SRH’s fourth-highest run-getter last season with 354 runs. While those numbers may not have topped the charts, his aggressive batting style and ability to dominate powerplays make him a strong contender to lead the scoring this year.
On the bowling front, Pat Cummins and Harshal were joint leaders for SRH in IPL 2025, picking up 16 wickets each. Chopra’s backing of Harshal suggests confidence in the pacer’s variations and death-over expertise, which could prove crucial in tight encounters.
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High expectations from the two stars
With a star-studded squad at their disposal, SRH will be expecting big performances from their key players in IPL 2026. Kishan, likely to play a pivotal role at the top of the order, will be tasked with providing explosive starts and anchoring innings when required. Similarly, Harshal’s role with the ball will be vital, especially in pressure situations. Known for his clever variations and ability to pick wickets in the death overs, he remains a crucial asset in SRH’s bowling attack.
There is little doubt that expectations will be high from both players as the franchise looks to make a strong statement this season. If Kishan finds consistency with the bat and Harshal delivers with the ball, SRH could emerge as serious contenders for the title.
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