The Sunrisers Hyderabad secured an important victory against Punjab Kings in a high-scoring match. Having to chase down 214, Abhishek Sharma set it up for his team with a superb 66, while Heinrich Klaasen finished the job with a powerful 42. SRH moved up to the second position on the points table and will hope that Rajasthan Royals do not register a win against Kolkata Knight Riders.
Fiery start by Punjab
PBKS got off to an explosive start with their openers setting a strong foundation. Atharva Taide, filling in for Jonny Bairstow, capitalised on the opportunity with a swift 46 off 27 deliveries. His aggressive approach put PBKS in a commanding position, though his promising innings was cut short by T Natarajan, who got him with a short delivery outside off stump.
Prabhsimran Singh delivered a scintillating performance, smashing 71 off 45 deliveries. His ability to score freely across the ground put pressure on the bowlers. However, his innings came to an end when Vijayakanth Viyaskanth got the better of him with a floater. At the end of the 14th over, PBKS stood at a formidable 151/2.
Rossouw, Jitesh accelerate
Rilee Rossouw has been a consistent performer for PBKS in recent matches, and this innings was no exception. His 49 off 24 played an important role in maintaining the momentum set by the openers. Rossouw’s innings was marked by powerful shots. His dismissal came from a low full toss by Pat Cummins, which left Rossouw disappointed as he was on the verge of a half-century. Despite SRH managing to pull the game back with some key wickets, Jitesh Sharma’s of 32 off 15 deliveries provided the final impetus. It ensured that PBKS pushed the total to 214/5.
Abhishek at it again
Arshdeep Singh gave PBKS a head start by removing the dangerous Travis Head for a duck with a delivery hitting the top of off stump. After this early breakthrough, it was the Abhishek Sharma and Rahul Tripathi show. Abhishek has only grown stronger this season, and his aggressive approach remained unchanged. He dismantled the attack in the first six overs. Tripathi contributed a timely 33 off 18 deliveries, providing perfect support. His innings included well-timed shots that kept the momentum going for SRH. Tripathi was deceived by a slower ball by Harshal Patel. Despite losing his wicket, SRH had a strong foundation.
Klaasen takes SRH home
Klaasen, who experienced a lean phase in the middle of the season, returned to form with a crucial 42 that guided SRH to victory, even though he lost his wicket in the end. Known for his aggressive batting, the South African showcased his power by smashing the ball all around the park. His return to top gear was instrumental in SRH’s chase. Nitish Kumar Reddy played a valuable supporting role, contributing 37 off 25 deliveries. His innings provided stability and allowed Klaasen to focus on his attacking game. Reddy’s knock ended with another well-executed slower ball by Harshal. But by then, the damage had been done.
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