Shikhar Dhawan celebrates on Twitter after SRH becomes the first team to make playoffs

The Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) has already earned a reputation for themselves as a strong bowling side, capable of defending even paltry scores and converting tight games in their favour. But during their last night’s fixture against the Delhi Daredevils, the orange outfit showed they can chase as well. With the win, the Kane Williamson-led side has qualified for the playoffs with 18 points from 11 games.

Batting first, Delhi’s Rishabh Pant scored a scintillating century, the first Indian to do so this season. Courtesy Pant’s sublime 128, the Daredevils posted a big total of 187/5 at the end of the innings.

However, what followed next was a relentless onslaught by Sunrisers Hyderabad batsmen. The orange army chased down the massive target with the loss of just one wicket. After losing Alex Hales at the top of the order for 14, Dhawan and Williamson forged a record unbeaten 176-run partnership to guide SRH over the rope and become the first team this season to qualify for the playoffs stage.

Following their impeccable show, Dhawan posted a picture with Williamson on Twitter to celebrate the win. The left-hander also lauded Panty for his heroics. He captioned the image saying, “It was a good outing today with this guy. Well played @RishabPant777. It was a wonderful knock #orangearmy#anotherwin.”

You can see the Tweet below

Match Details

Williamson and Dhawan took the game by the scruff of the neck after opener Alex Hales early departure. The two seemed to be batting on a totally different surface as they dominated right from the word go, not giving the bowlers even a single opportunity.

Delhi didn’t help themselves either as they bowled in the wrong areas and looked to save runs rather than pick wickets. Shreyas Iyer used 7 bowling options but all the bowlers conceded at above 8 runs per over as Sunrisers chased down the total in 18.5 overs.

Earlier, Rishabh Pant scored an unbeaten 128 for Delhi as they posted 187 on what looked to be a slow and sluggish pitch. Thanks largely to Pant, Delhi amassed 135 runs in the last 10 over which helped them reach the total.

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