Sunrisers Hyderabad coach Daniel Vettori offered a straightforward opinion on the recent implementation of bat size checks in the IPL 2025. According to the former New Zealand cricketer, umpires using a gauge to ensure bats comply with size regulations doesn’t significantly impact the game.
Vettori humorously remarked that he wished such checks existed during his playing career, but added that the process is so swift that it barely registers with the players. “Players are already aware of the standards and get checked often, so it’s just a one-second formality,” he noted. The rule recently came into play when Anrich Nortje had to swap his bat during a match against the Punjab Kings, as it failed to pass through the gauge.
No Concerns Over Bat Size Evolution
Vettori dismissed concerns over bat size influencing the game’s fairness. He pointed out that modern bat-making allows for bigger bats without additional weight, crediting the innovation to manufacturers responding to player demands. The evolution, in his eyes, is simply part of cricket’s natural progression.
“It’s not something that’s been discussed among our batters,” he said. “Fans love big shots—fours and sixes—so I don’t see bat sizes shrinking anytime soon.”
He stressed that the current scenario isn’t alarming enough to warrant changes, and the bat checks are more of a preventive measure than a game-changer.
Tactics and Player Insights at Wankhede
Looking ahead, Vettori emphasized the strategic importance of players like Ishan Kishan, who brings valuable insights into the Wankhede Stadium and his former team. “It would be foolish not to tap into his understanding of the Mumbai Indians’ mindset and the ground conditions,” Vettori said.
He also acknowledged the key role of openers Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head, whose recent dip in performance has been the result of calculated planning by opposing teams. Still, their contribution remains vital.
Addressing Rohit Sharma’s vulnerability to left-arm pace, Vettori preferred sticking with proven pacers like Pat Cummins and Mohammed Shami. Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians’ Naman Dhir reflected on his role, saying he is adapting to batting at the death under the guidance of seasoned players like Hardik Pandya and Kieron Pollard.
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