NEW DELHI: Ishan Kishan announced his presence in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with a stunning performance on March 23, 2025, smashing his maiden IPL century for Sunrisers Hyderabad against the Rajasthan Royals. Kishan's explosive knock consisted of 106* runs off just 47 balls, including 11 boundaries and six sixes, lighting up the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium as he helped guide his team to a commanding 44-run victory.
Walking in after a solid opening partnership between Travis Head (67 off 31) and Abhishek Sharma (24 off 11), Kishan made it clear from the outset that he meant business. With a combination of timing and raw power, he dismantled the Rajasthan bowling attack, particularly targeting England's Jofra Archer, who went for a staggering 76 runs in four overs—the worst bowling figures in IPL history. Kishan's innings laid a perfect foundation, as he formed an 85-run partnership with Head before taking the reins to dominate the rest of the innings.
Sunrisers Hyderabad posted a formidable total of 286/6, falling just short of their own record of the highest total in IPL history. The tone was perfectly set by Kishan's aggressive approach, which saw him reach his century in spectacular fashion, showcasing an array of shots that left the opposition in disarray. His performance sent ripples across the league, not least because this was more than just a century—it was a vivid statement that he’s back on the big stage and ready to reclaim his spot among India's elite cricketers.
For Kishan, the comeback was dramatic. Around the same time last year, he had faced disappointment after being dropped from the BCCI's central contracts as selectors believed he was not prioritizing red-ball cricket. Once hailed as one of India’s best wicketkeeper-batters alongside stars like Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson, Kishan found himself reflecting on his career. Yet on this day in Hyderabad, he transformed that disappointment into triumph—his celebration after reaching the milestone a resounding message to his doubters.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan remarked on Kishan's spirited celebration. “Kishan’s celebration for three figures today, that was a celebration maybe aimed at Mumbai, maybe to the chairman of selectors, maybe to Rohit Sharma, maybe to the whole of India, maybe to the whole of the world, just to say, 'Look I’m a decent player,'” Vaughan told Cricbuzz. “He’s a wonderfully balanced player, and he’s got that great shot on the onside.”
The Rajasthan Royals, though spirited in their chase, found themselves outpaced by the Ducks as they fell 44 runs short. Sanju Samson, their captain, led the charge with 66 runs, while Dhruv Jurel added 70 runs as they teamed up for a 111-run partnership. However, the daunting target set by Sunrisers Hyderabad proved insurmountable, with the team concluding their innings at 242/6.
For Sunrisers Hyderabad, this match serves as a testament to their strength heading into the 2025 IPL season. Kishan now leads the race for the Orange Cap as the highest run-scorer with an average of 106.00 and a phenomenal strike rate of 225.53. With this performance, he has not only put his name firmly back on the radar but also ignited a fierce competition for the Orange Cap this season.
Kishan's impactful innings has drawn attention across the cricketing world. As he aims to maintain this form, the upcoming fixtures will be critical in determining how far he can lead the Sunrisers Hyderabad. The team's next match is against the Lucknow Super Giants on March 27, 2025.
As the IPL progresses, the batters are up for contention, each vying for the coveted Orange Cap. Currently, Dhruv Jurel stands second in the rankings with 70 runs, while Travis Head occupies third place with 67 runs. Each of these players now has set the stage for an intense contest, showcasing their talent in the league of giants.
This season promises to be thrilling, with players like Ishan Kishan reviving interest through extraordinary performances that highlight the ever-growing competition and brilliance of the IPL. As the matches unfold, fans are left eager to witness future confrontations and the unfolding drama of cricket's most exciting league.
