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Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), the runners-up of IPL 2024, are set to face Rajasthan Royals (RR), who secured the third spot last season. Both teams showcased remarkable consistency in
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), the runners-up of IPL 2024, are set to face Rajasthan Royals (RR), who secured the third spot last season. Both teams showcased remarkable consistency in the previous edition, which is why they retained most of their core players ahead of the IPL 2025 auction.
SRH once again boast a powerful and deep batting lineup, now further strengthened by the addition of Ishan Kishan, making them even more formidable. On the other hand, RR have retained a similar batting unit but revamped their bowling attack with the inclusion of Jofra Archer. Sanju Samson will play solely as a batter for the first three matches, while Riyan Parag takes on the captaincy for these fixtures.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Hyderabad has consistently offered some of the flattest pitches in the country, and another batting-friendly surface is expected for this game. Since 2024, the average first-innings score at this venue has been 194, with pacers claiming 68.08% of the wickets, while spinners have found little assistance.
The toss-winning team is likely to opt for fielding first, with a competitive total hovering around 190. Weather conditions look favorable, with temperatures around 33°C and no rain expected during match hours.
Has scored 271 runs at an average of 45.16 at a blistering strike rate of 183.10 in seven innings at Hyderabad, including three fifties. Key matchups: Dismissed twice each by Sandeep Sharma and Jofra Archer; also removed once by Maheesh Theekshana and Tushar Deshpande. His Last five scores: 31, 59, 12, 0, 80.
Boasts 435 runs at 62.14 average with a stunning strike rate of 190.78 in ten innings at Hyderabad, with one fifty and a century. Strong record against RR bowlers; dismissed once each by Sandeep & Akash Madhwal. His Last five scores: 76, 13, 66, 5, 8*.
Picked up 10 wickets in seven IPL innings in Hyderabad at an average of 16.60 and a strike rate of 15.60. Shami is a potent wicket-taking option.
Accumulated 527 runs at 52.70 average with 162.65 strike rate in 12 innings at Hyderabad, with two fifties & centuries. Faces a challenge against leg-spinners Rahul Chahar and Adam Zampa, both of whom have dismissed him twice.
Struggles against Harshal Patel: 18 runs in 19 balls, 94.73 SR, 9 average, and 2 dismissals. Last five scores: 16, 1, 3, 5, 26.
Scored 118 runs at an average of 39.33 and a strike rate of 173.52 in three innings in Hyderabad, including a fifty. Faces multiple unfavorable matchups: Dismissed three times each by Mohammed Shami and Harshal Patel, and twice by Pat Cummins in three games. His Last five scores: 34, 15, 26, 7, 22.
A consistent wicket-taker, especially in the powerplay, where he can create breakthroughs. IPL 2024 performance against right-handed batters: 10 wickets, 27.80 average, 9.11 economy.
IPL 2024 performance against left-handed batters: 7 wickets, 20.85 average, 8.34 economy. Last five bowling figures: 1/25, 1/30, 1/49, 2/30, 2/33.
Scored 328 runs in 15 innings in Hyderabad at an average of 25.23 and an explosive strike rate of 201.22, including three fifties. Has a solid record against all RR bowlers, including Jofra Archer, making him a strong contender for a big knock. His last five scores: 135, 29, 24, 12, 79.
Has 140 runs at an impressive average of 46.66 and a strike rate of 157.30 in five innings in Hyderabad, along with one wicket. Has fared well against RR bowlers but will need to navigate the challenge posed by Wanindu Hasaranga. His Last five batting scores and bowling figures are : 0, 74, 16, 13, 5* and : 1/31, 2/23, 0/17, 0/13, 0/54.
Scored 121 runs in just two innings in Hyderabad at an impressive average of 60.50 and a strike rate of 157.14, with two fifties to his name. Has a solid track record against SRH bowlers, though Rahul Chahar and Harshal Patel have dismissed him once each. His last five scores: 10, 30, 40, 12, 93*.
Sunrisers Hyderabad hold the home advantage, and their power-packed batting lineup is well-suited to the conditions in Hyderabad. While Rajasthan Royals have a few standout players, their weaknesses could be exposed against a strong SRH side. Expect SRH to kick off their campaign with a victory.
