Aniket Verma, a promising young batter from Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, is making headlines in IPL 2025. Before joining Sunrisers Hyderabad, Aniket had no senior-level experience but was picked up for INR 30 lakh in the IPL auction. Known for his aggressive batting, he first gained attention with a stunning 101 off 75 balls in the Under-23 one-day tournament for Madhya Pradesh in December 2024.
His performances in domestic cricket showcased his power-hitting skills. While playing for Bhopal Leopards in the Madhya Pradesh Premier League, he smashed 244 runs in five innings at a strike rate of 205, including a breathtaking 123 off 41 balls with 13 sixes. He made his senior debut for MP in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy but was dismissed for a first-ball duck. However, his potential earned him a spot in the SRH playing XI for IPL 2025, making his debut against Rajasthan Royals on March 23.
Maiden IPL fifty in just his third game
In his third IPL match, against Delhi Capitals, Aniket played a crucial knock to rescue SRH from a difficult situation. Sunrisers lost Ishan Kishan, Abhishek Sharma, and Travis Head early, leaving them in deep trouble. Aniket, along with Heinrich Klaasen, built a much-needed partnership to stabilize the innings.
Aniket also had a stroke of luck when he was dropped by Abishek Porel, and he made the most of it. Despite SRH losing wickets at regular intervals, he stood firm and played a responsible innings. He completed his maiden IPL fifty in 34 balls, hitting four fours and three sixes, helping SRH post a competitive total.
