IPL 2026: SRH vs KKR Match Preview and Playing XI Updates

The IPL 2026 match between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Kolkata Knight Riders promises to be an exciting encounter. With SRH opting to bat first after winning the toss, captain Pat Cummins is optimistic about setting a high score. KKR's captain Ajinkya Rahane also expressed a desire to bat first, highlighting the importance of capitalizing on key moments. Both teams have made strategic changes to their lineups, aiming to secure crucial points in the tournament. Stay tuned for a thrilling match filled with competitive spirit and high stakes.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 3, 2026, 17:12 IST

SRH vs KKR Match Overview

In the 45th match of the Indian Premier League 2026, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) is set to face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). After winning the toss, SRH captain Pat Cummins opted to bat first. The team aims to maintain its aggressive batting style and post a substantial score on the board.

Cummins Comments on Pitch Conditions

Following the toss, Pat Cummins expressed confidence in the pitch, noting its favorable conditions and the hot weather. He stated, "We want to set a big score batting first. While I’m not an expert at reading pitches, it looks promising, and we expect a high-scoring match. Our young and experienced players have handled themselves excellently, consistently scoring over 220 in most matches. This aggressive approach has been beneficial for us."

Team Changes for SRH

Cummins announced that Nitish will miss the match due to illness, making way for debutant Smaran Ravichandran. Additionally, Harshal Patel has returned to the squad.

KKR's Strategy from Captain Ajinkya Rahane

KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane mentioned that they also preferred to bat first during the toss. He remarked, "The break we received has been beneficial. We’ve reflected on our strengths and identified areas for improvement. This match will be about winning crucial moments."

KKR's Lineup Changes

The Kolkata Knight Riders have made two significant changes to their lineup. Finn Allen replaces Tim Seifert, and experienced batsman Manish Pandey takes the place of Raman Deep Singh.

Current Standings of Both Teams

Before this match, SRH is in a strong position, having won 6 out of 9 matches, placing them third in the standings with 12 points. They have won their last five matches. In contrast, KKR has had a mixed season, sitting eighth with only 2 wins from 8 matches, but they are looking to build on their recent two victories.

Playing XI for Both Teams

Sunrisers Hyderabad Playing XI: Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan, Heinrich Klaasen, Salil Arora, Aniket Verma, Smaran Ravichandran, Pat Cummins, Shivang Kumar, Harshal Patel, Ishan Malinga.

Kolkata Knight Riders Playing XI: Ajinkya Rahane, Angkrish Raghuwanshi, Cameron Green, Rovman Powell, Manish Pandey, Rinku Singh, Anukul Roy, Sunil Narine, Vaibhav Arora, Kartik Tyagi, Varun Chakravarthy.