‘Tactically very good’: Why ex-India cricketer backs Ishan Kishan to lead SRH over Pat Cummins

NEW DELHI: Former India cricketer and coach Sanjay Bangar has backed Ishan Kishan to continue as captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad even after the expected return of Pat Cummins, citing the wicketkeeper-batter’s tactical clarity and ability to control games under pressure.

Cummins, who is set to rejoin the side after recovering from a stress reaction in his lower back, has missed the start of the season, with Kishan stepping in as captain for all the seven matches so far. While the Australian’s return is a boost, Bangar believes continuity in leadership could serve the franchise better.

“Ishan Kishan as a leader is tactically very good in terms of how he uses his bowlers. He understands which bowlers to use against which batters. It is a clear marker of how well he controls the game. He doesn’t look clustered, is not hurried, and is taking the right calls on the field,” Bangar said on Star Sports.

‘Continuity is key for SRH’

Bangar pointed to Kishan’s on-field decisions, particularly his handling of spinners in the win over Delhi Capitals, as evidence of his growing leadership maturity.

“The way he used his spinners against DC was impressive. All in all, I believe that even if Pat Cummins comes back, Ishan should continue captaining SRH. More often than not, having an Indian captain brings consistency. You cannot be sure about how fit a bowler of Pat Cummins' caliber will stay throughout the rest of IPL, considering the niggles he's been dealing with,” he added.

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Bangar stressed that stability in leadership could be crucial in the latter half of the tournament. “Ishan continuing with the leadership duties gives a lot of continuity to the players. That would be the way to go for Hyderabad.”

Regular captain Cummins is expected to return for Sunrisers Hyderabad against Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur on Saturday.