Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) is currently sixth in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, with only one win from three matches. Their latest match ended in a close loss to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), where they couldn’t defend a modest score. The 2016 champions aim to bounce back and gain momentum against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Match 17 at New Chandigarh.
SRH’s predicted playing XI for Match 17 against PBKS
Top Order: Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan (C & WK)
SRH is likely to continue with their dynamic opening pair of Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head. Despite both getting out early against Mohammed Shami in the last match, they have demonstrated their skills in earlier games, including a strong performance against Kolkata Knight Riders. Captain Ishan Kishan is expected to bat at No. 3, where his aggressive and composed style can stabilize and push the innings forward.
Middle Order: Nitish Kumar Reddy, Heinrich Klaasen, Liam Livingstone, Aniket Verma, Harsh Dubey
The middle order features a mix of young and experienced players. Nitish Kumar Reddy plays a vital role as an all-rounder and stood out in the close match against LSG. Heinrich Klaasen has been in great form, scoring consecutive fifties and providing stability when needed. Liam Livingstone adds strength as a power-hitting all-rounder, though he aims to improve his recent form. Youngsters Aniket Verma and Harsh Dubey bring balance, with the ability to accelerate in the final overs and contribute with the ball, especially in spin-friendly conditions.
Bowlers: Shivang Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Harshal Patel
Harshal Patel (Source: Getty Image)
SRH’s bowling lineup will include left-arm wrist spinner Shivang Kumar, who, despite limited wickets, has delivered essential overs. The pace attack will be headed by Jaydev Unadkat and Harshal Patel. Both bowlers have displayed moments of effectiveness but need to perform consistently for SRH to secure wins.
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) predicted playing XI vs Punjab Kings (PBKS):
Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan (C & WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Heinrich Klaasen, Liam Livingstone, Aniket Verma, Harsh Dubey, Shivang Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Harshal Patel
Impact Player: Eshan Malinga