Sunrisers Hyderabad opener Abhishek Sharma delivered a blistering innings against Punjab Kings in IPL 2026, setting the tone for a commanding start in their clash at New Chandigarh on April 11.
The left-hander smashed 74 off just 28 balls, reaching his maiden fifty of the season in only 18 deliveries. His innings featured five boundaries and eight sixes, striking at 264.28, as he dominated the PBKS bowling attack from the outset.
Record-breaking powerplay stand
Abhishek was well supported by Travis Head, who contributed 38 runs, with the pair combining for a 120-run opening partnership. Their aggressive approach powered SRH to 105 without loss in the powerplay—the highest of IPL 2026 and the third-highest in the tournament’s history.
Notably, the top two highest powerplay scores in IPL history have also been recorded by the same opening duo of Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head.
Punjab strike back after early damage
Punjab Kings managed to break the stand through Shashank Singh, who struck in his second over. He first removed Head with a slower delivery before dismissing Abhishek, who was caught near the cover boundary by Xavier Bartlett while attempting another big shot.
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This marked the second occasion in IPL history that Shashank Singh has dismissed Abhishek Sharma. However, by that stage, SRH had already built a strong platform through their opening partnership.
Head-to-head and standings
Historically, SRH have won 17 of their 24 IPL encounters against PBKS, who have claimed seven victories.
In IPL 2026, Punjab Kings sit second on the points table without a defeat, while Sunrisers Hyderabad occupy sixth place with one win and two losses.
