SRH vs KKR IPL 2026: Match 45 at Hyderabad, kickoff 3:30 PM IST Sunday
Synopsis
SRH's five-match win streak has vaulted them toward the top of the IPL table, while KKR's dramatic Super Over victory against Lucknow signals a possible turning point. With Pathirana's debut looming and both teams chasing playoff positioning, Sunday's clash at Hyderabad carries outsized weight. Historically, KKR own this rivalry 19-11, but form trumps record in T20 cricket.
Key Takeaways
SRH vs KKR in IPL 2026 Match 45 on Sunday, 3 May 2026 at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad .
Kickoff time: 3:30 PM IST ; broadcast on Star Sports and JioHotstar .
SRH have won five consecutive matches after a slow start; a win Sunday moves them to the top of the points table.
KKR have recorded two wins in recent outings, including a Super Over victory against Lucknow Super Giants .
Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana is set for a possible KKR debut , adding depth to their bowling attack.
Historically, KKR lead the head-to-head record 19-11 in 31 encounters .
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Match 45 of the Indian Premier League 2026 on Sunday, 3 May at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad, with both franchises riding momentum after contrasting turnarounds in the league phase.
SRH's five-match winning streak
SRH, under captain Pat Cummins, have recovered sharply from an inconsistent start. After winning just one of their first four games, the Orange Army have reeled off five consecutive victories, bolstered by refinements to their bowling unit. A win on Sunday would propel them to the top of the points table, capping a remarkable turnaround in a fiercely competitive tournament. Ishan Kishan, who led the team during their slow opening phase, remains a core batting figure alongside Travis Head and Heinrich Klaasen.
KKR's recovery from a shaky start
KKR, captained by Ajinkya Rahane, have struggled more visibly, managing one win from their opening six matches. However, the Kolkata franchise has posted two victories in recent outings, including a dramatic Super Over win against Lucknow Super Giants this past week. The turnaround signals a possible shift in momentum as they prepare for a crucial clash against the resurgent Hyderabad side.
Pathirana's potential debut and bowling battle
Matheesha Pathirana, the Sri Lankan left-arm fast bowler, is poised for a possible KKR debut. Known for his distinctive bowling action and effectiveness across both powerplay and death overs, Pathirana could prove instrumental in containing SRH's potent batting lineup. KKR's bowling attack, already featuring Varun Chakravarthy and Sunil Narine, would gain additional depth with the addition of the Sri Lankan pace talent.
Historical head-to-head record
In 31 encounters between the two franchises, KKR have dominated with 19 victories, while SRH have claimed 11 wins, with one match ending in a tie. Despite the historical advantage, SRH's current form makes them favourites heading into Sunday's clash.
Match details and broadcast
Match 45 kicks off at 3:30 PM IST on Sunday, 3 May 2026 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium. The encounter will be broadcast live on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar providing live-streaming coverage. Both teams will look to consolidate their positions in the tournament standings.
Point of View
Even without Pathirana, is functional. The real test for Hyderabad is whether they can sustain this against a KKR side with nothing to lose and a dangerous lower order. Historically, KKR own this matchup, but T20 cricket respects only the last five games, not the last five years.
NationPress
10 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the SRH vs KKR IPL 2026 match?
The match is on Sunday, 3 May 2026 at 3:30 PM IST at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad. It is Match 45 of the IPL 2026 league phase.
Why is this match important for SRH?
A win would move SRH to the top of the points table. The team has won five consecutive matches after a slow start, marking a remarkable turnaround. Victory on Sunday would cement their playoff credentials and consolidate their position as title contenders.
Who is Matheesha Pathirana and why does his debut matter?
Matheesha Pathirana is a Sri Lankan left-arm fast bowler known for his unorthodox action and effectiveness in both powerplay and death overs. His possible KKR debut would add depth to their bowling attack as they look to contain SRH's potent batting lineup.
What is the head-to-head record between SRH and KKR?
In 31 encounters, KKR have won 19 matches while SRH have secured 11 victories, with one match ending in a tie. Despite KKR's historical dominance, SRH's current form makes them favourites for Sunday's clash.
How can I watch the SRH vs KKR match?
The match will be broadcast live on Star Sports channels with live-streaming available on JioHotstar.
