The IPL 2025 playoff race delivered high drama in Lucknow as Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) produced a stunning chase to defeat Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) by six wickets, officially knocking LSG out of playoff contention. The match, played at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, saw fireworks from both sides but was ultimately decided by SRH’s fearless batting and Abhishek Sharma’s record-breaking onslaught.
LSG’s Big Three Set the Tone
Batting first in a must-win game, LSG’s top order fired on all cylinders. Mitchell Marsh (65 off 39) and Aiden Markram (61 off 38) stitched together a blistering 115-run opening stand at nearly 11 runs per over, putting SRH’s bowlers under immense pressure. Nicholas Pooran then provided the finishing kick with a 26-ball 45, while a late cameo from Akash Deep (6* off 1) helped LSG post a daunting 205/7 in 20 overs.
Despite the strong total, LSG’s innings lost momentum in the back half. After being 108/0 in 10 overs, they managed only 97 runs for 7 wickets in the final 10, as SRH’s bowlers, led by Harshal Patel (2/36) and Eshan Malinga (1/28), used clever variations to pull things back.
Abhishek Sharma’s Six-Hitting Frenzy
SRH’s chase got off to a flying start thanks to Abhishek Sharma’s breathtaking assault. The left-hander smashed 59 off just 20 balls, reaching his half-century in a mere 18 deliveries—the fastest of IPL 2025 so far. His knock included six sixes, four of which came in a single over off Ravi Bishnoi, completely turning the match in SRH’s favor.
Abhishek’s fireworks meant the required rate was never an issue. Even after his dismissal (caught at deep extra cover by Digvesh Rathi, who celebrated with a “notebook” gesture that sparked a heated exchange), SRH’s middle order had a much simpler task ahead.
Middle Order Finishes the Job
Ishan Kishan (35 off 28) and Heinrich Klaasen (47 off 28) kept the runs flowing, while Kamindu Mendis (32* off 21) calmly guided SRH home despite retiring hurt late in the chase. The Sunrisers reached the target with 10 balls to spare, finishing on 206/4 in 18.2 overs—a testament to their depth and power-hitting ability.
Key Moments & Turning Points
- Marsh-Markram Stand: LSG’s 115-run opening partnership set up a massive total, but the middle order’s collapse cost them a bigger finish.
- Abhishek’s 18-ball Fifty: Four consecutive sixes off Bishnoi shattered LSG’s confidence and put SRH in total command.
- SRH’s Middle Order Calm: Klaasen and Mendis ensured there were no late jitters, even after a couple of quick wickets.
- Rathi vs Abhishek: The wicket and subsequent celebration added spice, but the match was already SRH’s to lose.
Scorecard Snapshot
| Team | Score | Top Performers | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lucknow SG | 205/7 (20) | Marsh 65, Markram 61, Pooran 45 | Lost by 6 wickets |
| Sunrisers Hyd | 206/4 (18.2) | Abhishek 59, Klaasen 47, Mendis 32* | Won by 6 wickets |
What This Means for the Playoff Race
- Lucknow Super Giants: This loss ends LSG’s playoff hopes for IPL 2025. Despite a strong start to their campaign, inconsistency and a lack of bowling depth in crunch moments proved costly.
- Sunrisers Hyderabad: Already eliminated before this match, SRH played for pride and showed their batting firepower, spoiling LSG’s season in style.
Brief Analysis
This match was a showcase of modern T20 batting, with both teams clearing the ropes at will. LSG’s top order did the job, but their collapse in the last 10 overs and inability to contain Abhishek Sharma’s onslaught made the difference. SRH’s aggressive approach, especially in the powerplay, made a tough chase look easy and underlined the importance of fearless batting in the IPL.
In summary:
Sunrisers Hyderabad chased down 206 in just 18.2 overs, thanks to Abhishek Sharma’s 18-ball fifty and a clinical middle order, knocking Lucknow Super Giants out of IPL 2025 playoff contention in a match full of fireworks and drama.
For more IPL 2025 match reviews, player analysis, and playoff insights, keep following Mahakal Book!