Sat Jan 04 10:13:22 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka’s Manohar: From Late-Order Power Hitter to IPL Star
**Ahmedabad, January 4, 2025** – Abhinav Manohar, a Karnataka batsman, has risen through the ranks to become a sought-after finisher in limited-overs cricket, culminating in a lucrative INR 3.20 crore IPL contract with Sunrisers Hyderabad. His journey, however, wasn’t straightforward.
Manohar, 30, initially struggled for opportunities at the top of Karnataka’s batting order, forcing him to develop into a potent lower-order hitter. His impressive strike rate of 149.07 in 42 T20s, featuring an equal number of fours and sixes (47 each), showcases his explosive capabilities.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Vijay Hazare Trophy in Ahmedabad, Manohar highlighted the evolution of batting roles in modern cricket, emphasizing the increasing importance of strike rates over sheer run volume. He credits his success to adapting to his team’s needs and the unwavering support he received from Karnataka.
While initially frustrated by low scores, Manohar emphasized the importance of self-belief and team backing. He explained that his ability to strike from the first ball depends on factors like pitch conditions, the bowler, and his own shot selection, leveraging technological advancements to anticipate bowlers’ strategies.
Despite the immediate impact required in T20s, Manohar acknowledges the different approach needed in 50-over cricket. He has learned to balance aggressive batting with strategic timing, emphasizing the role of experience in finding the right balance between risk and reward.
Manohar’s time with the Gujarat Titans (GT) in the IPL proved pivotal, culminating in two appearances in the final, winning one. He lauded GT coach Ashish Nehra’s emphasis on simplicity and trusting one’s instincts, a philosophy that contrasted with the often over-complicated nature of modern cricket.
With his impressive IPL auction price and his experience, Manohar’s inclusion in the Sunrisers Hyderabad squad promises an exciting addition to their lower-middle order, adding firepower behind established players like Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan, and Heinrich Klaasen.
First Piper 