Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Punjab Kings: IPL 2025 Clash Turns into a Record-Breaking Spectacle
Match 27: Punjab Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad
Date: April 12, 2025
Venue: Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad
Result: Sunrisers Hyderabad won by 8 wickets (chased 246 in 18.3 overs)
The Indian Premier League 2025 witnessed one of its most electrifying matches on April 12, as Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) stormed back to form with a historic run chase against Punjab Kings (PBKS). The match, played at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, turned out to be a record-breaking contest — packed with big hits, explosive partnerships, and moments of brilliance. SRH chased down a mammoth 246-run target in just 18.3 overs, winning by 8 wickets and putting an end to their five-match losing streak in spectacular fashion.
First Innings: Punjab Kings Post a Massive 245/6
Shreyas Iyer Leads from the Front
Punjab Kings were asked to bat first and they didn’t disappoint. Their top order came out with aggressive intent and took full advantage of the batting-friendly Hyderabad pitch. The star of their innings was none other than their skipper Shreyas Iyer, who played a blazing knock of 82 runs off just 36 deliveries. His innings was a blend of finesse and power, striking boundaries with elegance and clearing the ropes with ease.
Shreyas showcased his ability to switch gears, starting cautiously and then exploding against the spin attack and pacers alike. His strike rate of over 227 spoke volumes about his dominance. Supported well by Liam Livingstone (44 off 21) and Jonny Bairstow (31 off 17), PBKS looked set for a 200+ total right from the powerplay.
Punjab's innings didn’t lose momentum even after a couple of wickets fell in the middle overs. Thanks to a fiery cameo by Jitesh Sharma, who scored 32 runs off just 13 balls, the team finished strong. The final five overs yielded 73 runs, pushing the score to a towering 245/6 in 20 overs.
While most of SRH's bowlers were taken apart, Harshal Patel stood tall amid the storm. He ended with figures of 4/42, the best by any bowler on the night. He picked up crucial wickets at regular intervals and helped prevent PBKS from crossing the 260-mark. His clever variations and pinpoint yorkers showed his experience and class in high-pressure games.
Second Innings: SRH Rewrite History with the Bat
Abhishek Sharma's Historic Knock
What followed in the second innings was nothing short of magical. Sunrisers Hyderabad came out with a nothing-to-lose attitude, and their openers Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head turned the match into a batting exhibition.
Abhishek Sharma, in particular, played the innings of a lifetime. The young Indian left-hander smashed 141 runs off just 55 balls, including 14 fours and 11 sixes. This monumental knock not only anchored the chase but also set a new record — the highest individual score by an Indian in IPL history, surpassing previous legends like Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant.
Abhishek's timing, placement, and raw power dismantled the Punjab bowling unit. He was ruthless on anything short or full and played ramp shots, lofted drives, and fierce pulls with absolute command.
While Abhishek went ballistic, Travis Head played a perfect supporting role, scoring 66 runs off 33 balls. His aggressive intent in the powerplay ensured the required run rate was always in control. The duo stitched together a mind-blowing 171-run opening partnership, which completely knocked the wind out of the Punjab Kings' sails.
After Head’s dismissal in the 13th over, SRH needed just under 60 runs from 7 overs — a cakewalk given the momentum. Aiden Markram and Heinrich Klaasen played supporting roles and ensured there were no hiccups. SRH eventually chased down the total in just 18.3 overs, finishing at 247/2, setting a new IPL record for the highest successful run chase.
Match Summary
Panjab Kings: 245/6Sunrisers Hyderabad:247/2
Top Performers
Abhishek Sharma (SRH) – 141 (55) (Player of the Match)Travis Head (SRH) – 66 (33)Shreyas Iyer (PBKS) – 82 (36)Harshal Patel (SRH) – 4/42 (4 overs)
Analysis and Talking Points
1. Abhishek Sharma – The New Star of Indian Cricket
Abhishek Sharma’s knock was a statement of intent. Often seen as a promising youngster, this innings might just be the defining moment that cements his place among India’s elite T20 batters. With maturity, clean hitting, and unshakable confidence, he dominated an experienced PBKS bowling attack.
2. Record-Breaking Run Chase
The successful chase of 246 runs is now the highest in IPL history, breaking Rajasthan Royals’ previous record of 224. This underlines the ever-evolving nature of T20 cricket, where no target is truly safe if batters find their rhythm.
The April 12th encounter between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Punjab Kings will go down as one of the greatest matches in IPL history. It had everything — towering sixes, fearless batting, records broken, and an electric atmosphere. Above all, it gave Indian cricket a new hero in Abhishek Sharma, whose 141-run masterpiece lit up the league and reminded fans of the unpredictable beauty of T20 cricket.
As IPL 2025 continues, this match will serve as a benchmark — both in terms of entertainment and excellence. For SRH, it might just be the turning point in their campaign. For PBKS, it’s a wake-up call. And for fans, it was a night to remember forever. Watch Match Highlight