'He needs to be given special award': Irfan Pathan's big words for SRH's Heinrich Klaasen IPL 2026

Heinrich Klaasen has maintained his exceptional form for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) during the 2026 IPL season, delivering another standout performance on Wednesday, May 6. Playing at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, the wicketkeeper-batter anchored the innings against Punjab Kings with a blistering 69 off just 43 deliveries. His knock, which featured three boundaries and four sixes, served as the backbone of a formidable total of 235/4. This high-scoring effort proved too much for the Kings, who were eventually held to 202/7 in their pursuit.

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Irfan Pathan heaps praise on Heinrich Klaasen

This latest half-century propelled Klaasen to the top of the tournament's run-scoring charts, earning him the Orange Cap. Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan lauded the achievement, highlighting how rare and impressive it is for a middle-order batter at No. 4 to lead the league in runs halfway through the season. Pathan specifically noted Klaasen’s remarkable consistency, emphasizing that the 34-year-old’s ability to dominate the rankings is particularly significant given he often faces fewer deliveries than the top-order anchors.

"If someone gets the Orange Cap while batting at No. 4 even once, especially halfway through the season, he needs to be given a special award. This doesn't happen often. He doesn't get a lot of balls, but despite that, he scores consistently. This guy is scoring runs in every match," Pathan said in a video on his YouTube channel.

SRH captain Pat Cummins always leads from the front: Klaasen

Pathan extended his commendations to SRH captain Pat Cummins, specifically pointing to the Australian’s impactful contributions with both the ball and his athletic presence in the field during the victory over Punjab Kings. The former all-rounder, now a prominent commentator, emphasized that Cummins embodies the qualities of a leader who spearheads his team's efforts through personal performance.

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According to Pathan, this proactive leadership style is the primary reason the fast bowler commands such immense respect within the Sunrisers franchise and across the cricketing landscape in Australia. By consistently delivering under pressure and setting a high standard for his teammates, Cummins has reinforced his reputation as a captain who drives his side forward through action.

"SRH captain Pat Cummins always leads from the front. He dismissed Priyansh Arya with the new ball here, and then in the next over, he was at mid-off, thinking about the field placements. The ball was in the air, and he ran to his left and did not drop the catch. He showed full commitment. He later got Suryansh Shedge out to break the partnership. He raises his hand in difficult situations. That's why his team respects him so much. That's why he is respected in Australia. He doesn't hide, but stands with his chest up in difficult situations," Pathan added.