How SRH Debutants Crushed RR in IPL 2026: Irfan Pathan Explains Winning Formula

Sunrisers Hyderabad delivered a commanding performance against Rajasthan Royals, thanks largely to their debutant pacers. After posting 216/6, powered by a blistering 91 from Ishan Kishan, SRH’s bowlers dismantled RR early in the chase.

The match turned dramatically in the very first over, when Praful Hinge ripped through RR’s top order, reducing them to 9/5. Despite resistance from Donovan Ferreira and Ravindra Jadeja, RR were bowled out for 159.

Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan highlighted how the debutants brought qualities SRH had been lacking.

“The biggest positive was that they offered both pace and variation, which is exactly what Sunrisers Hyderabad need. They started with high pace, bounce, and a bit of swing upfront, and as the ball got older, their variations came into play. Sakib, in particular, was outstanding. His wrist position allows him to generate sharp turn and deceptive, slower deliveries, even on a dry surface. Praful Hinge will be effective with the new ball and yorkers, while Sakib can control the middle overs with his variations. That combination makes their bowling attack far more complete,” said Pathan.

How did Praful and Sakib change SRH’s bowling attack?

Pathan pointed out that SRH’s bowling earlier leaned heavily on variations from experienced players like Harshal Patel and Jaydev Unadkat.

“This was a big boost for Sunrisers Hyderabad because their bowling needed that extra firepower. While experienced bowlers like Jaydev Unadkat and Harshal Patel were relying on variations, Praful Hinge and Sakib Hussain brought in high pace and bounce, which made a real difference,” he said.

What makes Sakib Hussain’s story special?

Pathan also underlined the emotional journey of Sakib Hussain, making his performance even more significant.

“Sakib's journey is remarkable. His mother sold her jewellery to buy his first cricket shoes, and to see him deliver a performance like this on such a big stage will be incredibly special for his family. Credit also goes to the team management and Ishan Kishan for backing these young players in a high-pressure game. That trust paid off, and it looks like an exciting phase ahead for SRH,” Pathan signed off.

Who is Praful Hinge and what is his background?

Praful Hinge is a young pacer from Vidarbha who has steadily risen through domestic cricket. He has played first-class, List-A and T20 formats, with notable performances in the Ranji Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

He idolises Pat Cummins and has also drawn inspiration from senior Indian pacer Umesh Yadav, who supported him during his early career.

What does this mean for SRH going forward?

The emergence of Praful Hinge and Sakib Hussain gives SRH a more balanced bowling unit, combining pace, bounce and variation. With young talent stepping up alongside experienced players, the team appears better equipped for high-pressure matches in the tournament.

(With inputs from ANI)