Kavya Maran is not just the CEO of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), she is a visionary who is reshaping the brand of cricket in India, making it more exciting, dynamic, and aggressive. Since taking charge, Kavya has driven the team to not just compete but to redefine how cricket is played, especially in the fast-paced world of the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Under her leadership, SRH has evolved into a franchise known for its bold, high-scoring cricket. Gone are the days when Indian teams were known for conservative play. Today, SRH’s aggressive approach to batting and high-octane cricket has become a trademark. The team regularly posts scores over 200, even over 250 at times, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in T20 cricket. This shift in mindset can be directly attributed to Kavya’s leadership, where she encourages players to express themselves fully and play with freedom, unburdened by conventional limitations.
Kavya’s philosophy is clear- cricket is not just about winning, it’s about entertaining and inspiring the fans. Her focus on aggressive cricket is about more than just the numbers, it’s about creating a culture that attracts new fans, especially the younger generation. By fostering an environment where big hits, fast scoring, and entertainment are prioritized, Kavya is not just developing a team, she is building a brand that resonates with millions of cricket lovers worldwide.
Under her guidance, SRH has become synonymous with the kind of high-energy cricket that excites crowds. Players like Travis Head, Klassen, and Abhishek Sharma have flourished in this environment, taking risks, playing attacking shots, and often setting the stage for massive run chases or high targets. Kavya’s leadership has brought the best out of these players, making SRH one of the most unpredictable and entertaining teams in the IPL.
Moreover, Kavya’s forward-thinking approach extends to marketing the team. SRH is not only about what happens on the field but also how it is perceived off it. Her focus on digital engagement, social media presence, and fan interaction has brought a fresh perspective to the IPL, ensuring that SRH’s aggressive brand of cricket is felt both inside and outside the stadium.
On a personal note, Kavya Maran’s leadership and bold approach have served as a true inspiration for me in my role as Director of Operations at ISST. Watching her redefine what it means to lead with vision, courage, and a focus on innovation has encouraged me to adopt similar principles in the sports science and technology field. Like Kavya, I strive to foster an environment where creativity, bold decision-making, and out-of-the-box thinking are not only encouraged but celebrated. Her journey has shown me that leadership is not just about managing resources, it’s about setting the tone for others to push boundaries and exceed expectations. Kavya’s example has influenced my approach to driving growth and inspiring the next generation of sports professionals at ISST, where we aim to nurture leaders who, like Kavya, will leave a lasting impact on the world of sports.
Shared by: Tanvi Lunawat,
Director of Operations, ISST (Institute of Sports Science & Technology)
