Pat Cummins blown away by Nitish Kumar Reddy’s bowling impact in IPL 2026; calls – Pat Cummins Heaps Praise on Nitish Kumar Reddy’s Impact for SRH
A Rising Star in the SRH Ranks
As the IPL 2026 season reaches its thrilling business end, the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have emerged as a formidable force, securing a spot in the eliminator after a resilient campaign. Central to this resurgence is the remarkable evolution of young Indian all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, who has earned high praise from his captain, the legendary Australian fast bowler Pat Cummins.
The Sunrisers finished their league stage in third place, boasting an impressive record of nine wins from 14 matches. Despite a net run rate that trailed behind the Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Gujarat Titans, the team’s ability to peak at the right time has been a major talking point. After a rocky start that saw them win only once in their opening four matches, the team’s late-season surge—winning eight of their last ten games—has positioned them perfectly for the playoffs.
The ‘Different’ Factor: Why Nitish Kumar Reddy Stands Out
Pat Cummins, known for his keen eye for talent and tactical acumen, has identified Nitish Kumar Reddy as a player who has taken his game to an entirely new level. The skipper highlighted that Reddy’s development is not just limited to his explosive batting at the death but is significantly tied to his newfound rhythm and speed with the ball.
“I think he’s on to another level this year. He’s picked up probably five kilometers; he’s looking really fit and strong,” Cummins noted. “Previously, he’s had a couple of injuries as well that have hampered the way he could bowl.”
Cummins emphasized that Reddy provides a tactical variety that the rest of the SRH attack lacks. By offering a genuine ability to swing the ball with the new ball, Reddy has become a versatile weapon. “He offers something a little bit different to anyone else in the bowling lineup. He can really swing the ball, so that’s why he’s got the chance with the new ball a few times. So that’s another point of difference—he’s different from Sakib, Eshan, or myself or Hinge. It creates a more complete attack.”
Cultivating a Culture of Learning
The success of the Sunrisers this season has also been attributed to the healthy atmosphere within the dressing room, particularly among the young bowlers. Alongside Reddy, talents like Sakib Hussain and Praful Hinge have flourished, with Cummins playing an active role in their development.
When asked about his influence on the youngsters, Cummins humbly described the process as a collaborative effort. “We talk as a bowling group before every game, to map out maybe a couple of the opposition but also what our strengths are. I’ve had plenty of conversations with them. They are both great guys; they want to learn; they want to try new things.”
Cummins added that their pre-match discussions involve constant brainstorming. “They had a few questions; I’m not sure I’ve given them good answers, but we like bouncing ideas off each other.”
Looking Ahead to the Eliminator
The trajectory of the Sunrisers has been nothing short of impressive, especially considering the challenges faced early on. After enduring a difficult 2025 season, the team has bounced back in style. With Cummins back at the helm after overcoming a recurring back injury, the side regained their composure and consistency, winning six of their last seven matches, including a clinical victory over the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their final league encounter.
As the team prepares for the upcoming eliminator against the Rajasthan Royals at the New PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh, the squad looks balanced and confident. With the blend of seasoned leadership from Cummins and the explosive, versatile energy provided by players like Nitish Kumar Reddy, SRH fans have plenty of reasons to remain optimistic about their title aspirations this year.
The blend of youth and experience, coupled with the tactical clarity brought by the leadership group, has turned the Sunrisers into a unit that functions as more than just the sum of its parts. As they approach the high-pressure environment of the playoffs, all eyes will be on whether Reddy can continue his stellar form and help guide Hyderabad toward glory.
