The Three Teams Where Michael Bracewell Would Have Been a Good Fit in IPL 2025 ft. SRH
Are the SunRisers Hyderabad Missing a Trick by Not Picking Up Michael Bracewell in the Auction?
As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season inches closer, cricket fans are left wondering what could have been. One such instance is the surprising omission of New Zealand’s in-form all-rounder Michael Bracewell from the league. The 34-year-old had an incredible run in the ongoing 2025 Champions Trophy, claiming four wickets for 26 in 10 overs against Bangladesh.
The Kiwi all-rounder’s Ace Credentials
Bracewell, who has already rediscovered his best form since returning from injury, has the potential to be a match-winner. His off-spin, lower-order power-hitting, and ability to turn the game on its head with his bowling make him an attractive proposition for any franchise.
#1 SunRisers Hyderabad: Where the Bradman Would Have Thrived
The SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) had a remarkable bounce-back season in IPL 2024 under the leadership of Pat Cummins. However, their struggles on slow and low pitches due to a lack of quality spinners continue to plague the franchise. With a potent top-order batting lineup and a competent bowling attack from 8 to 11, the side is missing a reliable No.7 bowling all-rounder.
The addition of Sri Lankan batting all-rounder Kamindu Mendis may not have solved the equation entirely, and SRH might have been smart to go all-in on the in-form Bracewell to fill the off-spinner and No.7 bowling all-rounder void. With the Kiwi all-rounder’s ability to extract sharp turn out of his off-breaks, he could have been the game-changer the franchise needed to take them to the next level.
#2 Royal Challengers Bengaluru: The Franchise That Missed the Mark (Again)
Despite their five-year partnership with Will Jacks, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) were surprisingly reluctant to retain him in IPL 2025. Brady Rawden and Krunal Pandya, both left-arm spinners, were the only bowlers they managed to acquire in the auction. This lack of quality spinners and power hitters in the lower-middle order has been a perennial issue for RCB.
Bracewell, with his experience of bowling in the Chinnaswamy Stadium, often considered a graveyard for spinners, could have been the ideal choice to fill the void. His off-spin and lower-order power-hitting could have been the difference maker that propelled RCB to their elusive IPL title.
#3 Lucknow Super Giants: The Dream That Got Away
The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) had a disappointing 2024 season, missing the playoffs for the first time since their inception. Despite acquiring Rishabh Pant for a record-breaking price, they lacked a accomplished opening pair and a reliable off-spinner in their lineup. Kamlesh Nagarkoti, the pacer, was the only bowler who could claim three or more wickets in a match for LSG in IPL 2024.
Bracewell’s addition would have strengthened LSG’s middle order with his batting acumen and provided a reliable off-spinner at No.7. With the pitches in Lucknow often favoring spinners, his ability to extract sharp turn out of his off-breaks could have made him the much-needed ‘bankable fifth bowler’ for the side.
In conclusion, the three teams where Michael Bracewell would have been a good fit in IPL 2025 ft. SRH have missed a trick by not taking a chance on the under-the-radar all-rounder. His skillset could have transformed the fortunes of SRH, RCB, and LSG, making him an instrumental part of each team’s success story.
