SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) began their IPL 2025 season with a bang, recording the second-highest total in the history of the Indian Premier League during their opener against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on March 23, 2025. At the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, SRH posted a formidable score of 286 for 6, falling just one run short of their all-time high set in the previous year.
Leading the charge was the dynamic Ishan Kishan, who celebrated his IPL debut for SRH in spectacular fashion. Kishan hammered an impressive century, finishing on 106 runs from just 47 balls. His innings was adorned with 11 fours and 6 sixes, showcasing his explosive batting capabilities. Notably, Kishan scored his century in only 45 balls, marking it as the second-fastest century by an Indian in IPL history.
Reflecting on his thrilling performance, Kishan remarked, "Feels good, it was coming for a while. Wanted to get this last season but happy to get that first hundred. The team has put their faith in me, and I want to do my best for them." He attributed his success to the confidence instilled by the team management and the right conditions offered by the pitch.
Travis Head also proved pivotal, contributing a rapid 67 runs off just 31 balls. The duo helped propel SRH past the 200-run mark in just 14.1 overs, equaling the joint-fastest run to 200 in the tournament’s history. Their aggressive batting set the tone for a relentless onslaught on the Royals' bowling, leaving them reeling.
While SRH's performance was impressive, it highlighted the struggles of Royals' bowler Jofra Archer, who had the worst figures in IPL history for a bowler, conceding a staggering 76 runs in his four overs without taking a wicket. His most challenging encounter came against Kishan, who particularly targeted Archer’s bowling in a display that left spectators enthralled.
Throughout the match, SRH exhibited their batting prowess, achieving their fourth total of over 250 runs in T20 history, underlining their status as a powerhouse in T20 cricket. The team's performance also brought back memories of past high-scoring matches, cementing their reputation for explosive batting. Previously, SRH had set the record for the highest-ever team total in IPL history with a score of 287/3 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the 2024 season.
In addition to Kishan and Head’s brilliance, Heinrich Klaasen chipped in with a quickfire 34 runs off 14 balls, adding firepower to an already aggressive batting lineup. The first match of the season showcased how such performances could be influential for SRH as they aim to capture the IPL crown again this year.
As the innings concluded, the Royals were left with an imposing target to chase, reflecting on their bowling shortcomings that paved the way for SRH’s terrifying display. With a scoring rate that kept the audience on the edge of their seats, SRH's match was a reminder of the team's capacity to dazzle, setting a high benchmark for the tournament this season.
This remarkable effort not only signifies the start of SRH's IPL 2025 but also reignites discussions about their continued dominance in the league. As they chase their aspirations for the championship, this match could be a significant highlight in their pursuit. With the team's confidence high, fans eagerly await their next performance.
