Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) will play Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on May 3 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Match 45 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026.
SRH is currently third in the points table, with six wins from nine matches. They are in great form, having won five matches in a row, and will look to clinch their seventh win of the season.
Kolkata Knight Riders sit in eighth place, with only two wins from eight matches. After a tough stretch of five consecutive losses, they have bounced back with two hard-fought victories. The three-time champions will be keen to build on this success and secure their third win of the campaign.
Pitch Report
The Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium has become a more balanced venue in recent seasons, moving away from its previous tendency to favor teams batting first. The pitch now tends to be flatter, especially during the first innings, providing good bounce for batters. This makes it easier for players to execute their shots early on. However, as the game progresses, the pitch can slow down, causing spongy bounce and requiring batters to adjust their play.
IPL Stats and Records at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium
| Matches Played |
87 |
| Matches Won Batting First |
38 |
| Matches Won Batting Second | 47 |
| Matches With No Result |
01 |
| Matches Tied |
01 |
| Average First Innings Score |
163 |
| Highest Team Total |
286 |
| Highest Total Successfully Chased |
246 |
Strategies and Match-ups
SRH is in strong form, particularly with their batting lineup. Players like Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Heinrich Klaasen, and Ishan Kishan have been delivering consistently, forming a solid top and middle order. Their bowling has also improved at crucial moments. Captain Pat Cummins brings stability and leadership, boosting the confidence of younger bowlers who have shown promising performances.
Meanwhile, KKR appears to be regaining momentum following a tough period. After a thrilling last-over win and a Super Over victory, team morale is up. Rinku Singh has returned to form, adding a crucial edge in the finishing role. With renewed confidence, KKR will aim to continue this momentum and deliver a complete performance to secure their third win of the season.