“Huge Asset to Our Team”: Pat Cummins Praises Eshan Malinga After Match-Winning Spell Against LSG

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) continued their impressive run in IPL 2025 by eliminating Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) from playoff contention in a convincing fashion. While several players contributed to the win, it was young pacer Eshan Malinga who truly caught everyone’s attention. His disciplined two-wicket spell played a key role in dismantling LSG’s batting lineup. After the match, SRH captain Pat Cummins had high praise for the emerging talent, calling him a “huge asset” to the team.

Malinga Rises to the Occasion

Eshan Malinga may not have been a household name at the start of the season, but performances like this are changing that rapidly. In a high-pressure match with playoff implications, Malinga delivered with accuracy and composure beyond his years. His two wickets came at a crucial juncture, halting LSG’s momentum and setting the tone for SRH’s dominance.

His ability to swing the ball and vary his pace troubled the batters, and although his figures weren’t headline-grabbing in numbers alone, the impact of his spell was undeniable. His breakthroughs helped SRH seize control early in the game and never let go.

Cummins Backs His Young Bowler

Following the win, SRH skipper Pat Cummins was full of admiration for Malinga’s performance and attitude. “Eshan has been brilliant for us,” Cummins remarked. “He shows great maturity and bowls with courage in tough situations. It’s rare to see such composure in a young fast bowler.”

Cummins, who has led from the front this season, emphasized how important Malinga’s adaptability and energy have been for the team. “Players like him give us depth and confidence. No matter the conditions, he backs himself, and that’s exactly what we need,” he added.

SRH’s Balanced Bowling Attack

One of the key reasons for SRH’s successful campaign this year has been their balanced and flexible bowling lineup. Malinga’s inclusion has added another dimension to their strategy. His raw pace and deceptive variations complement the experience of bowlers like Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Cummins, making SRH a formidable bowling unit.

Against LSG, the bowlers executed their plans perfectly. They maintained pressure through tight lines and aggressive field placements, preventing any significant partnerships from forming. Malinga’s quick strikes during the middle overs helped choke the run flow and pushed LSG into a defensive mindset.

Eshan Malinga’s Inspiring Journey

Eshan’s cricketing journey is a story of persistence and potential. Coming from a modest background, he worked his way through the domestic circuit with consistent performances. When SRH picked him up at the auction, he was considered a long-term investment. But his rapid improvement and match temperament have made him a vital part of the playing XI much sooner than expected.

What sets him apart is his intelligent use of variations. He reads the game well and adjusts his pace and angles accordingly. Whether it’s the powerplay or the death overs, Malinga has shown the ability to handle different phases of the game with equal effectiveness.

Playoff Race Heats Up

SRH’s convincing victory over LSG not only knocked out the latter but also significantly boosted their own chances of securing a playoff berth. The win improved their net run rate and gave them momentum heading into the final leg of the league stage. With contributions coming from both senior players and rising stars like Malinga, SRH looks like a well-rounded side peaking at the right time.

Cummins stressed the importance of maintaining focus. “Every game now is almost like a final. We can’t afford to take the foot off the pedal. The good thing is, the team is gelling well, and everyone is stepping up,” he said in the post-match interview.

Disappointment for LSG

For Lucknow Super Giants, this loss marked a premature end to their campaign. Despite flashes of brilliance throughout the season, inconsistency proved to be their downfall. The inability to handle pressure situations, especially in key matches, once again became their Achilles’ heel.

Their coach admitted the team was outplayed and credited SRH for executing their plans better. “Their young players stood up when it mattered. That’s something we’ll reflect on and work on for the future,” he noted.

Future Looks Bright for Malinga

Eshan Malinga’s breakout season is a testament to the IPL’s role in discovering fresh talent. His performances have not only helped SRH but also turned heads in the broader cricketing world. With a solid support system, experienced mentors like Cummins, and a calm mindset, Malinga is on a promising path.

Cricket experts have already begun speculating about a potential national call-up if he continues his upward trajectory. His consistency, combined with his ability to perform under pressure, makes him a player to watch in the coming seasons.

Final Thoughts

Eshan Malinga’s standout performance against LSG showcased not just his skill but also his potential to become a future star. His contributions, though subtle in stats, had a major influence on the outcome of the match. Pat Cummins’ praise reflects the growing trust within the SRH camp in this young pacer.

As SRH continues their push for the playoffs, Malinga’s role could become even more crucial. In a team full of stars, it’s refreshing to see a young name rise and make a difference when it matters most.