Michael Clarke predicts IPL 2025 Winner, Orange Cap and Purple Cap winners

The 2025 IPL is set to begin on March 22 at the iconic Eden Gardens, where defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will start their campaign against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Ahead of the season, former Australian skipper Michael Clarke shared his predictions for the tournament winner and individual award winners.

Speaking on the Beyond 23 Cricket podcast, Clarke backed the Pat Cummins-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) to win the IPL 2025 title. Last season, SRH finished as runners-up, but this time, Clarke believes they can go all the way.

While discussing Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Delhi Capitals (DC), he said: "I think there is a lot of pressure on Punjab, on Ricky Ponting's team. They have invested in a number of Australian players, they really need to start well and get some momentum. So, I think they might find it hard this year. I think Delhi might find it difficult once again. They have got good enough players, and I can't seem to put a finger on why they might struggle."

Michael Clarke predicts Travis Head to win the Orange Cap and Kuldeep yadav to bag the Purple Cap

Talking about the teams that could qualify for the playoffs, Clarke named KKR, SRH, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), and Rajasthan Royals (RR). "I don't think the difference between first and last is that far away. If I had to pick a top four, I'll go with KKR, SRH. Then LSG, I think Justin Langer can get the best out of this team, and then I think I might go with Rajasthan Royals. I'm probably going to be a bit biased when it comes to the winner, I am going for Pat Cummins – go the Aussies," he said.

He also praised SRH’s batting strength, Pat Cummins' leadership, and backed Travis Head to win the Orange Cap this time around. "Their batting is strong enough to win them the tournament, no doubt about it. I think Patty as a captain, he would have learned a lot last year, so his captaincy will improve this year, and in this format of the game. It is hard to go past Travis Head on last year's form, the way he is playing at the moment, the care-free freedom. That wicket is as good as any pitch to bat on. If Sunrisers are going to win, it is going to be one of their batters."

Predicting the tournament’s leading wicket-taker for the Purple Cap, Clarke added: "I'm going to say Kuldeep Yadav. Spin to win," he concluded.

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