IPL 2026 Match 45: KKR’s Dominant Win Over SRH in Hyderabad

Match Result & Recap

In a thrilling encounter at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on May 3, 2026, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) chased down Sunrisers Hyderabad’s (SRH) total of 165 with ease, securing a 7-wicket victory in just 18.2 overs. This commanding performance was highlighted by a stellar bowling display from Varun Chakaravarthy, who was named Player of the Match for his exceptional figures of 3/36. His efforts were instrumental in dismantling SRH’s batting lineup, which had initially shown promise with Travis Head’s explosive 61 off 28 balls. Despite Head’s resilience, SRH’s innings faltered, losing nine wickets for just 60 runs after a strong start. KKR’s chase was anchored by Angkrish Raghuvanshi’s composed 59 off 47 balls, supported by Ajinkya Rahane’s steady 43 off 36 balls, ensuring a comfortable win with 10 balls to spare.

First Innings Summary

Opting to bat first, SRH began with intent. Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head provided a solid foundation, adding 49 runs for the first wicket. Sharma’s quickfire 15 off 10 balls, including a six, set the tone. Head then took charge, accelerating the scoring with nine fours and three sixes, amassing 61 runs off 28 balls. Ishan Kishan contributed a valuable 42 off 29 balls, featuring four boundaries and two sixes. However, the middle and lower order couldn’t capitalize on the strong start. Heinrich Klaasen (11 off 8), Ravichandran Smaran (4 off 4), and Aniket Verma (6 off 8) fell cheaply. The tailenders added minimal runs, and SRH was all out for 165 in 19 overs. KKR’s bowlers, led by Chakaravarthy’s 3/36, effectively restricted SRH’s scoring, with Kartik Tyagi (2/30) and Sunil Narine (2/34) also making significant contributions. Pat Cummins and Cameron Green chipped in with a wicket each, maintaining pressure throughout the innings.

Second Innings Summary

Chasing a target of 166, KKR’s openers, Rahane and Raghuvanshi, set a solid platform. Rahane’s 43 off 36 balls, including four boundaries, anchored the innings. Raghuvanshi, displaying maturity beyond his years, scored 59 off 47 balls, with five fours and two sixes. Their partnership of 84 runs for the second wicket was pivotal. Rinku Singh’s quickfire 22 off 11 balls, featuring two fours and a six, provided the finishing touch, while Cameron Green remained unbeaten on 3 off 3 balls. KKR reached 169/3 in 18.2 overs, with Eshan Malinga’s 3.2-over spell conceding 42 runs without a wicket. Sakib Hussain (1/17 in 3 overs) and Shivang Kumar (1/31 in 4 overs) were the other wicket-takers for SRH, but they couldn’t halt KKR’s chase.

Top Performers – Batting

Travis Head (SRH)

Head’s aggressive approach at the top of the order was a highlight for SRH. His 61 runs off 28 balls, including nine fours and three sixes, provided the initial momentum. Despite his efforts, SRH couldn’t capitalize on the strong start, losing wickets in quick succession.

Angkrish Raghuvanshi (KKR)

Raghuvanshi’s composed innings of 59 off 47 balls was the cornerstone of KKR’s chase. His ability to rotate strike and find boundaries under pressure showcased his growing maturity and skill.

Ajinkya Rahane (KKR)

Rahane’s steady 43 off 36 balls provided the necessary support to Raghuvanshi. His experience and calmness under pressure were evident as he anchored the innings during crucial phases.

Top Performers – Bowling

Varun Chakaravarthy (KKR)

Chakaravarthy’s exceptional bowling figures of 3/36 were instrumental in restricting SRH’s scoring. His variations and control in the middle overs applied pressure, leading to crucial breakthroughs.

Kartik Tyagi (KKR)

Tyagi’s disciplined bowling earned him 2/30 in his four overs. His ability to bowl yorkers and maintain a tight line and length was crucial in containing SRH’s middle order.

Sunil Narine (KKR)

Narine’s economical spell of 2/34 in four overs provided the necessary breakthroughs. His experience and guile were evident as he outfoxed SRH’s batsmen, including the key wicket of Ishan Kishan.

Turning Points

• Travis Head’s Departure: Head’s dismissal for 61 triggered a collapse, with SRH losing nine wickets for just 60 runs thereafter.
• Chakaravarthy’s Middle-Overs Control: His spell in the middle overs applied pressure, leading to crucial breakthroughs and stifling SRH’s scoring.
• Raghuvanshi and Rahane’s Partnership: Their 84-run stand for the second wicket laid the foundation for KKR’s successful chase.

Points Table Implications

This victory propelled KKR further up the points table, enhancing their prospects for a playoff berth. SRH, on the other hand, faced a setback, and the loss highlighted areas needing improvement as they aim to stay competitive in the tournament.

Watch highlights

For a comprehensive view of the match’s key moments, you can watch the official highlights on the IPL’s official website or their verified YouTube channel.

Related on iplruns.in

• Dream11 prediction for this match
• Dream11 team review
• Tactical analysis