Sunrisers coach praises allrounder’s improved bowling and explosive power-hitting in IPL 2026

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Nitish Kumar Reddy has earned glowing praise from James Franklin, with the Sunrisers Hyderabad pace-bowling coach highlighting the allrounder’s transformation after a difficult IPL 2025 campaign.

Franklin said Reddy used last season’s struggles as motivation, putting significant work into both his bowling and finishing ability ahead of IPL 2026.

“His contribution this year has been immense,” Franklin said. “He’s really bounced back.”

After batting mostly at No. 4 last season, Reddy has shifted into a deeper finishing role this year, often arriving with only a few overs remaining. The move has unlocked his aggressive batting, with the youngster becoming one of SRH’s most dangerous late-innings hitters.

Reddy currently boasts a strike rate above 215 in the death overs, placing him among the most explosive Indian batters in the tournament alongside Tilak Varma and Rajat Patidar.

Franklin also praised Reddy’s bowling versatility, revealing that SRH have trusted him in multiple roles — from opening the attack to bowling through the middle overs depending on match situations.

According to Franklin, Reddy’s success comes from a mix of natural athleticism, disciplined preparation and focused power-hitting training.

“He’s strong, fast, dynamic and incredibly professional,” Franklin said. “His preparation has been built around understanding that he may need to hit a six from ball one.”

The coach added that Reddy now appears far more confident and clear about his role, with SRH benefitting hugely from his impact as a genuine allround option this season.