Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are all set to lock horns with the Mumbai Indians (MI) in the 33rd match of IPL 2025 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Both teams, boasting formidable squads on paper, find themselves in a similar predicament this season, each having secured just two wins and suffered four losses. This encounter is crucial for both sides as they desperately seek a victory to reignite their campaign. As the high-voltage clash approaches, the spotlight is on SRH’s potential playing XI. Let’s delve into the likely team composition for the Orange Army.
Ehsan Malinga to Get Another Chance?
Sri Lankan pacer Ehsan Malinga made his IPL debut in the previous match against Punjab Kings. While he managed to pick up two wickets, his economy rate of 11.25 was on the higher side. Despite this, the SRH management might be inclined to give the young bowler another opportunity to prove his mettle against a strong Mumbai Indians batting lineup. Consistency is key for young talents, and this match could be a crucial learning experience for Malinga.
The Jaydev Unadkat Conundrum
The inclusion of veteran Indian pacer Jaydev Unadkat in the playing XI remains a point of discussion. His vast experience in the IPL could be valuable, especially in the latter stages of the innings. However, his inclusion might depend on how the SRH batting unit performs in the first innings. If the top order manages to put up a substantial score, Unadkat could be brought in as an impact player in the second innings to bolster the bowling attack. If the batting falters, SRH might opt for an extra batter as their impact player to provide more stability.
Will Mumbai’s Familiar Face, Rahul Chahar, Feature?
The acquisition of Rahul Chahar by SRH was met with considerable anticipation, with many expecting him to be a regular fixture in the playing XI. However, the leg-spinner has not featured in as many games as initially predicted, with the team management often preferring other spin options. But, considering the match is being played in Mumbai, his former home ground and a venue he knows intimately, the chances of Rahul Chahar making it to the playing XI are significantly high.
Having been a part of the Mumbai Indians for a considerable period, Chahar possesses valuable insights into the Wankhede pitch conditions and the strengths and weaknesses of the MI batsmen. His familiarity with the environment could provide SRH with a strategic advantage. It is highly likely that Zeeshan Ansari, the other spinner in the squad, might be rested for this crucial encounter to accommodate Chahar’s experience.
SRH Predicted Playing XI vs Mumbai Indians:
Here’s the likely playing XI that Sunrisers Hyderabad might field against the Mumbai Indians:
| Player Name | Role |
| Abhishek Sharma | All-Rounder |
| Travis Head | Batsman |
| Ishan Kishan | Batsman |
| Nitish Kumar Reddy | Batsman |
| Heinrich Klaasen (wk) | Wicketkeeper-Batsman |
| Aniket Verma | All-Rounder |
| Pat Cummins (c) | Bowler / Captain |
| Harshal Patel | Bowler |
| Rahul Chahar | Bowler |
| Mohammed Shami | Bowler |
| Ehsan Malinga | Bowler |
Impact Players:
- Likely: Jaydev Unadkat (if batting performs well)
- Alternative: Abhinav Manohar (if extra batting strength is needed)
This predicted XI suggests a balanced approach for SRH, combining aggressive top-order batting with a varied bowling attack. The inclusion of Rahul Chahar could provide the much-needed spin expertise on a Mumbai pitch that can sometimes assist spinners. The decision on the impact player will likely be made after assessing the first innings performance.
As both Sunrisers Hyderabad and Mumbai Indians are eager to climb up the IPL 2025 points table, this encounter promises to be a thrilling one. The strategic team selections and the performance of key players will undoubtedly play a crucial role in determining the outcome of this high-stakes battle at the Wankhede.
