Abhishek Sharma's Century and Sunrisers' Historic Chase
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) dramatically ended their four-match losing streak in the 2025 Indian Premier League by successfully completing the second-highest run chase in the tournament's history against Punjab Kings (PBKS). A maiden century from opener Abhishek Sharma, coupled with strong support from Travis Head, helped SRH to overhaul a target of 246 with remarkable ease in Hyderabad.
Punjab Kings Post a big Total
Opting to bat first on a surface conducive to high scoring, Punjab Kings compiled an imposing total of 245 for 6. Their innings was built around an aggressive 82 off 36 balls from captain Shreyas Iyer, along with quickfire contributions from openers Priyansh Arya (36) and Prabhsimran Singh (42). A late assault by Marcus Stoinis, who hit four consecutive sixes off Mohammed Shami in the final over, provided a strong finish. However, PBKS might have aimed even higher if not for an exceptional spell from SRH bowler Harshal Patel. Used strategically through different phases, Harshal claimed crucial wickets, including Iyer and Glenn Maxwell in the same over, finishing with impressive figures of 4 for 42.
'Travishek' Partnership Dominates Chase
Faced with a daunting target, SRH's opening pair of Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma, dubbed 'Travishek', delivered a stunning response. Abhishek, who had struggled for form earlier in the season, immediately found his rhythm, hitting three boundaries in the second over. Capitalizing on a couple of missed chances – including being caught off a no-ball – Abhishek unleashed a spectacular assault. He reached his maiden IPL century in just 40 balls, eventually scoring 141 off 55 deliveries, reportedly the highest score by an Indian in this specific context. Head played a crucial supporting role with 66 runs, as the pair amassed a massive 171-run partnership in only 12.2 overs, effectively breaking the back of the chase.
Sunrisers Historic Chase
The sheer dominance of the opening stand left little doubt about the outcome. Although Head fell attempting another big hit, and Abhishek was eventually dismissed by Arshdeep Singh to warm applause, the required rate was well under control. Heinrich Klaasen and Ishan Kishan comfortably guided Sunrisers Hyderabad past the target, achieving the historic chase with eight wickets and nine balls to spare.
This victory provides a morale boost for Sunrisers Hyderabad, halting their losing run in spectacular fashion. For Punjab Kings, it marked their second defeat, compounded by a potential injury concern for fast bowler Lockie Ferguson. It was a day of Abhishek Sharma, whose record-breaking century overshadowed a strong batting effort from Punjab which powered SRH to a thrilling win.
