SRH VS GT: In a gripping IPL 2025 encounter at a packed stadium, Mohammed Siraj produced a sensational spell to restrict Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) to 152/8 in their allotted 20 overs against Gujarat Titans (GT), who opted to bowl first after winning the toss in Match 19 of the season.
Sunrisers’ innings saw moments of promise but lacked the solidity needed to post a competitive total, primarily due to the relentless pace and precision of Siraj, who scalped four wickets for just 17 runs in his full quota. The Titans’ bowling unit collectively maintained pressure, never allowing the SRH batters to settle.
Powerplay Struggles: Siraj Draws First Blood
SRH’s start was jittery, losing Travis Head (8 off 5) in just the first over. Siraj delivered the early breakthrough, with Head mistiming a shot straight to Sai Sudharsan. Abhishek Sharma tried to counterattack with four boundaries but eventually fell to Siraj for 18 off 16 balls. The early dismissals left SRH reeling at 38/2 in the fifth over.
Middle Order Falters Again
Ishan Kishan (17 off 14) was the next to go, offering a simple catch to Ishant Sharma off Prasidh Krishna’s bowling. Heinrich Klaasen (27 off 19) and Nitish Kumar Reddy (31 off 34) attempted to stabilize the innings with a 50-run stand. However, both fell in quick succession to left-arm spinner R Sai Kishore, who continued his impressive form this season.
Sri Lankan batter Kusal Mendis’ struggles continued, managing just 1 run before being dismissed by Prasidh Krishna. From 100/3 in the 14th over, SRH slumped to 120/6 in the 17th, losing momentum at a crucial stage.
Captain Cummins Sparks Late Charge
Skipper Pat Cummins provided some late fireworks, scoring a rapid 22 off just 9 deliveries, including three boundaries and a six, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure. Mohammed Shami (6* off 2) added a few vital runs at the death.
Despite the late efforts, SRH only managed 152 runs, a total that may be below par on this pitch.
Gujarat Titans Bowling: Siraj Leads the Show
Mohammed Siraj was undoubtedly the star of the innings, finishing with remarkable figures of 4/17. He was well-supported by Prasidh Krishna (2/25) and R Sai Kishore (2/24), while Rashid Khan and Ishant Sharma played supporting roles. Ishant was the most expensive, conceding 53 runs in his four overs.
What’s Next? Titans Eye Comfortable Chase
With a modest target of 153 runs, the onus now shifts to the Gujarat Titans’ batting unit to complete the chase. With big names like Shubman Gill, David Miller, and Rahul Tewatia in the lineup, GT will back themselves to secure their third win of the season.
However, SRH will hope for early breakthroughs and a magical spell from Cummins or Shami to stay in the hunt. The second innings promises a thrilling finish as the Titans begin their chase under the lights.
