What makes Sakib Hussain stand out? Aaron hails SRH pacer after crucial DC spell

Sunrisers Hyderabad’s resurgence with the ball took centre stage in their clash against Delhi Capitals, but beyond the result, it was Varun Aaron’s assessment of Sakib Hussain that stood out. The SRH bowling coach pointed to a key trait that has made the young pacer such a valuable asset in their recent turnaround.

Defending a massive 243, SRH once again relied on discipline and variation rather than just pace. While Eshan Malinga grabbed the spotlight with a four-wicket haul, Hussain quietly delivered another impactful spell, returning figures of 1/29 in his four overs and ensuring Delhi never truly got control of the chase.

SRH vs DC, IPL 2026: HIGHLIGHTS | SCORECARD

It was a collective bowling effort on a batting-friendly surface, with SRH using slower balls and clever changes of pace to disrupt rhythm. Hussain’s role in that plan has become increasingly important, especially in the middle overs where control often dictates the game.

Aaron, speaking after the match, highlighted exactly what makes the youngster stand out in modern T20 cricket.

“With Sakib, that slower ball is just brilliant. He’s almost getting as much turn as an off-spinner on it. Same arm speed, executes his yorkers, and can bowl 140-plus as well. In today’s game, you need that variation — to go from 140-145 down to almost 107,” Aaron said.

SRH’s bowling story, however, wasn’t always this controlled. Earlier in the season, they struggled badly, most notably against Punjab Kings, where they failed to defend 220. That game forced a rethink, leading to the axing of experienced names like Jaydev Unadkat and Harshal Patel, and opening the door for younger options like Hussain.

Since that shift, SRH have found rhythm, and their bowling has started to complement their already explosive batting, helping them stitch together a strong run of results.

WHAT SRH DID TO MOULD SAKIB HUSSAIN

Aaron also revealed that Hussain’s rise is not sudden, but the result of consistent work behind the scenes.

“I’ve seen Shakib for almost two years now. He has always had pace — a very quick arm action and an awkward style. As a batsman, especially at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, if you just bowl 140-plus with a smooth action, you can get lined up easily. You need something different, and his slower ball is outstanding. The skills were always there, but he didn’t have access to long-term coaching,” he explained.

SRH have invested time in refining those raw skills. “Over the last couple of months, he has put in a lot of work. Since the World Cup, we’ve had specific camps for him. He spent five days in Mumbai, then we called him to Chennai, where we worked closely with him. A lot of behind-the-scenes work has gone in since the auction,” Aaron added.

For Aaron, though, the biggest difference lies in Hussain’s mindset.

“He has responded really well. Most importantly, he has the will and the hunger. You can have all the skills in the world, but if you don’t have the drive and desire to improve, it doesn’t matter,” he said.

With SRH now finding answers with the ball, Hussain’s evolution could be a key factor in how far they go this season.

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