IPL 2025: SRH Soars Like a Phoenix, Says Hayden on Their Victory
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Synopsis
Former Australian cricketer Mathew Hayden commended the strategic partnership of Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head that led Sunrisers Hyderabad to a record win against Punjab Kings in IPL 2025. SRH, previously struggling, demonstrated remarkable resilience to rise like a Phoenix in this thrilling match.
Key Takeaways
- Abhishek Sharma scored 141 runs, leading SRH to victory.
- The partnership with Travis Head was strategic and effective.
- SRH achieved the highest successful run chase in IPL history.
- Support from senior players was crucial for Abhishek.
- Robin Uthappa praised Abhishek for his leadership qualities.
Hyderabad, April 13 (NationPress) Former Australian cricketer Mathew Hayden has praised the strategic partnership between Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head that propelled Sunrisers Hyderabad to an unprecedented victory over Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. He noted that after a tough stretch of four losses, Sunrisers Hyderabad have emerged victorious like a Phoenix.
Following a four-match losing streak, SRH made a stunning comeback with a dominant eight-wicket win against PBKS in an exhilarating match at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Saturday night.
The evening was highlighted by Abhishek, who delivered a spectacular innings of 141 runs off just 55 balls—a performance that marked one of the most unforgettable run-chases in IPL history. He received excellent support from Head, who contributed a quick-fire 66 runs from 37 balls, enabling SRH to comfortably chase down 246 runs with nine balls remaining, setting the record for the highest successful run-chase in IPL.
In a display of batting excellence, Abhishek’s explosive performance led the team, under the leadership of Pat Cummins, to a remarkable chase of 246 runs, restoring their winning momentum.
“It was a beautifully calculated partnership. Travis Head mentioned post-match how they operated with different strategies—Abhishek targeted the spinners while Head managed the pace bowlers, allowing himself some time. Such strategies are rare in T20 cricket, especially during a significant run chase where pressure can build quickly. This partnership was exceptional. Looking at their performance, it’s astonishing how a team that seemed down just hours ago has risen like a Phoenix tonight,” Hayden stated on JioHostar.
Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa also expressed admiration for the SRH openers, who combined for an unstoppable opening stand of 171 runs off just 75 balls. Uthappa praised Abhishek for his fearless batting, which garnered appreciation from both sets of fans. With his 141 runs off 55 balls, the young opener achieved the third-highest individual score in the IPL and the highest by an Indian.
“Fastest hundred in a chase in IPL—that's something extraordinary. And the highest score in a chase—that’s simply incredible. Given the legends who have participated in this tournament over the last 18 years, to top that list is remarkable. What stood out even more was the admiration he received—not only from the Orange Army but from the opposing fans as well. You could see Punjab Kings supporters applauding him as he left the field. That speaks volumes about the quality of that innings,” Uthappa remarked.
Hayden also reflected on Abhishek’s resurgence after a series of disappointing performances, attributing his success to the timely guidance from senior players such as Suryakumar Yadav and Head.
“He mentioned a few names that stood out—like Suryakumar Yadav, who is currently in great form. It’s vital for any player’s career to converse with seasoned players who have navigated similar challenges. In cricket, you often experience more defeats than victories, so having the backing of experienced players like Suryakumar or Travis Head is incredibly advantageous. I’m surprised he didn’t give a shout-out to them!” Hayden added.
Uthappa concluded by praising Abhishek for his maturity and leadership at such a young age, noting his gesture of acknowledging the fans after his match-winning performance against Punjab Kings.
“It was a lovely gesture from a young player. He’s only about 23 or 24, yet he’s already showcasing leadership qualities. He’s just starting to find his place in the Indian T20 squad and is vying for positions in other formats too. To exhibit such ownership, maturity, and dedication to his team and fans at a young age is commendable. It was a fantastic gesture,” Uthappa concluded.
