Abhishek Sharma produced a match-defining unbeaten knock as Sunrisers Hyderabad posted 242/2 and then held their nerve to beat Delhi Capitals by 47 runs. The left-hander struck his ninth T20 century in the format and, for the first time in his IPL career, carried his bat through the entire 20 overs while compiling a second-highest IPL score of 135*—a 68-ball innings studded with 10 fours and 10 sixes.
SRH’s massive total and the key scorers
Chasing a target of 243, Delhi Capitals were always chasing the clock after SRH made full use of the platform provided at the top. Abhishek’s innings was the anchor, but he was not alone in building the pressure.
- Sunrisers Hyderabad finished on 242/2.
- Abhishek Sharma made 135* off 68 balls, with 10 fours and 10 sixes.
- Travis Head contributed 37.
- Heinrich Klaasen added 37* off 13 balls.
Delhi Capitals’ chase: early promise, then collapse
Delhi Capitals began their run chase with optimism, sparked by a partnership between KL Rahul and Nitish Rana. However, once the early momentum was interrupted, they failed to sustain partnerships and slipped behind the required rate.
- KL Rahul made 37.
- Nitish Rana scored 57.
- Delhi Capitals were eventually bowled out for 195/9.
Eshan Malinga was the standout with the ball for SRH, taking 4/32 and delivering a rapid double impact—two wickets in just two balls.
- Eshan Malinga: 4/32.
- Included two wickets in two balls.
What Abhishek and Yuvraj Singh said after the win
After the match, Abhishek explained that the team had approached the powerplay with intent, but the pitch behaviour required a quick adjustment as the innings unfolded. He also spoke about the freedom he receives within the SRH environment.
- Abhishek said SRH had a clear plan to attack during the powerplay.
- He noted the wicket played “a bit slow,” forcing a re-planning after the early phase.
- He added that he wanted to make use of the powerplay while entertaining the crowd.
- He also mentioned that judging a par score is difficult until the innings progresses.
He further credited the backing from the captain and coaching staff, saying that such support is essential. Abhishek pointed to the SRH setup as a key factor in enabling youngsters to develop and express themselves.
- He stressed the importance of backing from the captain and coach.
- He described the SRH environment as a “game-changer” for growth of younger players.
Yuvraj Singh, Abhishek’s mentor, praised the innings as well. After the knock, he posted on X: “Let the bat do the work! getting better each day well played sir Abhishek! keep up with the process,” highlighting the progress Abhishek has shown.
Yuvraj’s mentorship: the long-term plan behind Abhishek’s rise
Yuvraj has been guiding Abhishek Sharma since around 2019, with their work becoming more intensive during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown. That period included a structured training camp in Mohali, where they focused on long-range development rather than short-term fixes.
- The mentoring partnership began around 2019.
- During the 2020 lockdown, it intensified through a structured training camp in Mohali.
- A long-term “four-year plan” was used to help Abhishek move from domestic cricket to an international-level performer.
The guidance has centred on refining technique, building discipline, improving fitness, and strengthening mental toughness. Yuvraj’s role has also been described as crucial in maintaining confidence during tougher stretches, a support system that is now reflected in performances like Abhishek’s unbeaten 135 in IPL 2026.
The victory lifted SRH to third place in the standings, while Delhi Capitals dropped to fifth. With Abhishek’s record-setting effort driving the outcome, SRH continued their strong run in IPL 2026, delivering a dominant win powered by a blend of power, timing, and sustained pressure.
