In recent years, batting has been an issue for Sunrisers Hyderabad but the opening partnership was a strength. The likes of David Warner and Jonny Bairstow always ensured top starts with the willow. However, in IPL 2022, so far, SRH has struggled in this aspect. They have had opening partnerships of 3 and 25 so far and both Kane Williamson and Abhishek Sharma have not looked comfortable together. While Kane is coming off an injury, Abhishek is still inexperienced. However, they have a number of options they can try out in this area. In this article, we take a look at the two best opening combinations SRH should try so that the batting unit will find form.
1) Washington Sundar and Rahul Tripathi
Kane Williamson is one of the best No.3 batters across all formats of the game. He has done well in the middle-order for the franchise before. Since the team does not have an experienced player in the middle order, it is best if they use the captain at No.3 or maybe even No.4.
In the opening department, SRH could use two batters who will put less value on their wicket. If he bats with freedom, Rahul Tripathi can be dangerous while Washington Sundar has shown his skills as an opener in the Tamil Nadu Premier League. With this combination, SRH will have a four-overs bowling player also at the top, which will render terrific balance to the XI.
2) Rahul Tripathi and Aiden Markram
Rahul Tripathi is a specialist opener and although he has done well at No.3, it would be best if he can play at his preferred position. That way, both the franchise and the player will operate without making too many compromises.
On a similar note, Aiden Markram is also a genuine opener and he has the best chance of coming good by playing at this position. Markram is an all-round cricketer and usually takes time to get going. The middle-order may not be a suitable position for him to perform in a tournament, which he is relatively new to. Hence, SRH could try out the South African cricketer at the top of the order.
