Sunrisers Hyderabad ended their four-match losing streak by executing the second-highest run chase in IPL history, successfully chasing down 246 runs against the Punjab Kings. Crucial to this victory was Travishek, particularly with Abhishek Sharma finally finding form this season. The pitch in Hyderabad returned to being batting-friendly, and both Abhishek and Travis Head exploited it, posting a remarkable partnership of 171 runs in just 12.2 overs.
Abhishek, who had not hit a six this season prior, struck six sixes en route to his century off just 40 balls, a performance dedicated to the “Orange Army.” His century marked the highest score achieved by an Indian in IPL history, overshadowing Harshal Patel’s critical 4 for 42 that restricted PBKS, resulting in them scoring at least 20 runs less than they could have. The defeat was compounded by an injury to PBKS’s key pacer, Lockie Ferguson.
Abhishek started his innings vigorously, scoring three consecutive fours in the second over, and a pivotal moment came when he was given a reprieve on 28, seizing the opportunity with his first six. PBKS’s struggles were further highlighted when Ferguson left the game early due to injury, and Yuzvendra Chahal dropped a catch off Abhishek, allowing SRH to race to 100 by the eighth over. Amid the batting frenzy, notable moments included Abhishek’s power shots, especially a helicopter six off Marco Jansen, as Sunrisers dominated the chase against Punjab Kings.
In a match marked by contrasting fortunes, Punjab Kings (PBKS) faced a disheartening start against Sunrisers Hyderabad as they lost their first wicket after a subdued celebration from Chahal’s dismissal of Head. Abhishek Sharma, on the other hand, brought life back to the Orange Army, dedicating his maiden IPL century to the fans. He scored five additional sixes before being dismissed by his friend Arshdeep in the 17th over, earning applause from the crowd and players alike.
Shreyas Iyer’s explosive 82 off 36 balls and Priyansh Arya’s record-equalling half-century set a formidable target for PBKS, who threatened a score above 250. However, Harshal Patel’s critical wickets of Iyer and Glenn Maxwell in one over set the tone for a challenging finish, leading to PBKS concluding at 245 for 6. Harshal’s extraordinary bowling included a four-wicket haul, vital in the last six overs as he dismantled the PBKS batting lineup.
Eshan Malinga impressed on his debut for PBKS by claiming two crucial wickets, showcasing the potential of new talent. In the final overs, Marcus Stoinis tried to salvage PBKS’s innings with an explosive finish against Mohammed Shami, who had a dismal outing, ending with figures of 0 for 75. Despite PBKS’s efforts, it was Harshal’s impactful bowling that ultimately shifted the match in favor of Sunrisers, as Heinrich Klaasen and Ishan Kishan guided their team to a win with nine balls remaining.
