“Harshal Brings Invaluable Experience in Tough Overs”: Anil Kumble Praises Patel’s Performance After Win Over CSK

April 26, 2025: Former Indian cricket legend and ex-head coach Anil Kumble has praised Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) bowler Harshal Patel for his outstanding performance in their IPL match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Friday. Kumble, speaking as an expert on JioHotstar’s Match Centre Live, lauded Patel’s bowling intelligence and his ability to handle tough overs with precision, especially in challenging conditions.

Patel’s spell of 4/28 was instrumental in restricting CSK to just 154 runs in 19.5 overs, a performance that earned him the ‘Player of the Match’ accolade. His ability to break the backbone of CSK’s batting lineup was evident as he dismissed key players, including Sam Curran, the in-form Dewald Brevis, MS Dhoni, and Noor Ahmad. The match ended in a dominant victory for SRH, with Patel’s bowling setting the stage for a comfortable chase.

Kumble, who has always been known for his deep understanding of spin and pace bowling, took the opportunity to highlight Harshal Patel’s vast experience in the format. “Having played this format for a long time, Harshal brings that invaluable experience, especially in bowling tough overs. He’s been a Purple Cap holder a couple of times, and that knowledge shows,” Kumble remarked. He went on to note how Patel’s ability to consistently hit the right lengths—especially in tough venues like Chennai and the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium—has made him a standout performer in high-pressure situations.

“Chennai and Chinnaswamy are tricky venues. If you miss your length, it’s easy runs. Harshal’s ability to hit the right lengths and vary his pace is a testament to his maturity as a bowler,” Kumble said. “His natural ability to vary pace came through well today—he bowled really smartly.”

Apart from his praise for Harshal Patel, Kumble also took time to acknowledge the promising performance of CSK’s young batter, Dewald Brevis. Despite CSK’s loss, Brevis put up an impressive 42 runs off 25 balls, which included four sixes and a boundary. Kumble was particularly impressed by Brevis’ ability to play spin on Chennai’s challenging two-paced wicket.

“What stood out was his ability to play spin. Chennai is not an easy place to bat—it’s a two-paced wicket where the odd ball can hold up,” Kumble observed. “He’s done it before in South Africa, first-class cricket, and in the U-19s. Brevis came into the IPL as a replacement player, not originally part of the squad. It reminds me of how Chris Gayle came in as a replacement for RCB in 2011 and became an icon.”

Kumble also highlighted Brevis’ long-term potential with CSK, praising his all-around ability and adaptability. “Brevis has all the shots, and with players like Rachin Ravindra, Mhatre, and Pathirana, CSK has a young core to build on. Brevis has the potential to be a long-term asset for the franchise.”

Brevis’ fearless 42 runs was a highlight for CSK, but despite his efforts, SRH’s disciplined bowling attack, led by Harshal Patel, proved too much for the Chennai-based side.

As the IPL season progresses, Harshal Patel’s performances will continue to be pivotal for SRH, while Brevis’ fearless batting might signal the emergence of a new star for CSK. Both players are shaping up to be crucial assets in their respective teams, and with Kumble’s expert analysis, it’s clear that both players have bright futures ahead in the tournament.