In the thrilling 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season opener held on March 23 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) showcased their batting firepower, setting an imposing target of 287 runs for the Rajasthan Royals (RR). This match was particularly significant as SRH posted a staggering total of 286 runs, which marks the second-highest score in IPL history, just one run short of their own record set in 2024.
The game kicked off with an unusual decision from RR captain Riyan Parag, who chose to bowl first. This choice quickly backfired as SRH’s openers, Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head, began aggressively, scoring 45 runs off the first 19 balls. Sharma’s quick 24 runs off just 11 balls set the tone, but it was Head and the debutant Ishan Kishan who transformed the innings into a spectacle.
Kishan, who was signed for a remarkable Rs 11.25 crore in the mega auction after being dropped by Mumbai Indians, made an immediate impact. He struck an explosive unbeaten 106 runs off 47 deliveries, reaching his century in just 45 balls—the second-fastest century by a wicketkeeper in IPL history. His innings included 11 fours and 6 sixes, leaving no doubt about his skills as he dazzled fans with an astonishing strike rate of 225.53.
Head also contributed significantly, scoring 67 runs off only 31 balls, as the duo added 85 runs for the second wicket in a mere 38 balls. Kishan’s performance was not just a personal milestone but a notable announcement of his return to form, especially after being overlooked for the Indian national team’s central contracts in 2024.
Reflecting on his remarkable performance, Kishan stated, “Just feel good. I was hoping for it [the century]. The team is doing well, and the environment is very different. Credit goes to my teammates who gave me the confidence. The pitch was really good, and we just focused on keeping the pressure on.”
The total of 286 set by SRH was accomplished despite a few hiccups in the final overs, with Rohit Sharma recording 76 runs conceded in one of the most expensive bowling spells in IPL history. Despite RR bowling unit's experience, they struggled to find answers to SRH’s onslaught.
The performance also marked a turning point for Kishan, who seems poised to reclaim his status in Indian cricket after a period of absence from the national team. His unbeaten century not only earned him accolades but also put him back on the selectors’ radar. As he celebrated his hundred—a feat that made him the first-ever SRH batter to hit a century on debut—his joy was evident as he punched the air in delight and sent a flying kiss to the crowd.
Looking at the records, SRH now holds three of the top four highest team totals in IPL history, showcasing their formidable batting prowess. This dominance is echoed in their consistent achievement of 250-plus scores, indicating that they have transformed into the league’s most fearsome batting unit under the leadership of their passionate management.
As Rajasthan Royals went into their innings, they faced the monumental task of chasing down 287 runs—an almost uncharted territory in T20 cricket. With a fast outfield and a powerful batting lineup, the Royals had no choice but to approach the challenge with full aggression. Nevertheless, with their previous performances in mind, the SAS fans were hopeful that their team could defend and rise to the occasion.
Overall, this match was not only a demonstration of individual brilliance by Ishan Kishan and his teammates but also an exciting kickoff for the IPL 2025 season, filled with potential for thrilling outcomes. Fans and players alike eagerly looked forward to the result of this match and the subsequent league games, as SRH aims to maintain its momentum from this explosive start.
