The runner-up of the IPL 2024, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), found themselves in a muddle after their heartbreaking defeat to Gujarat Titans (GT) in Ahmedabad. Chasing a mammoth target of 225 runs, SRH crumbled for just 186 runs, registering their seventh defeat of IPL 2025 edition. As a result, their chances of making it to the playoffs have become minimal. However, mathematically, they still have a slight chance of making it to the top four. Currently, they are positioned at ninth spot on the points table with 3 wins in 10 games.
IPL 2025 points table: Here’s how SRH can still make it to the top four
Win all their remaining matches
The scenario is quite straightforward, SRH must win every of their remaining game from here on. It’s non-negotiable if they want to stay in the playoffs race. Their next 4 matches are up against, Delhi Capitals (DC), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). The win in these 4 matches will take them to 14 points.
Their star-stubbed lineup badly needs to fire from here to make it happen. Tactically, SRH must optimize their lineup, with Travis Head stepping up and Pat Cummins managing bowling changes astutely. Among the 4 games, two are tough away matches in Bengaluru and Lucknow.
Convincing wins with big margins
Net run rate (NRR) is another crucial aspect in the race for the playoffs. Currently, SRH have the second-worst NRR (-1.192) after Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the points table. Their notable crushing defeats against Mumbai Indians (MI) and KKR have significantly hampered their NRR. As a result, it has become imperative for them not only to win but also to win by big margins.
Depending on other results
SRH’s fate also hinges on other teams faltering. Current top-four contenders like MI (14 points), GT (14 points), RCB (12 points) and Punjab Kings (13 points) must drop games. If DC (12 points) or LSG (10 points) lose momentum, SRH could sneak in, especially if they secure big wins to offset their NRR deficit. In such a tight points-table scenario, every run and every over will matter, making SRH’s margin of victory just as crucial as the win itself.
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As SRH face a do-or-die phase in the IPL 2025, the emphasis must shift from individual brilliance to collective performance. Star players like Abhishek Sharma, Heinrich Klaasen and Mohammed Shami have delivered in patches, but consistent team effort is now critical. With their playoff hopes hanging by a thread, SRH can no longer afford fragmented performances. The batting unit must support each other, the bowlers need to execute their plans with discipline, and the fielding must be sharp. Only by functioning as a cohesive unit can SRH overcome tough opponents and keep their playoff dreams alive.
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