The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has officially kicked off, and the excitement is already palpable as SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) face off against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on March 23 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. This season opener brings together two teams eager to make a statement, each carrying its own set of expectations and challenges.
For Rajasthan Royals, the absence of their regular captain Sanju Samson adds an intriguing layer to the contest. Samson, nursing a finger injury, will likely take the field but won’t captain the side. Instead, Riyan Parag will step into the leadership role, a significant opportunity for the young batter. The Royals will be hoping Parag can channel his aggressive approach with a level-headed captaincy to guide the team to their 10th win against SRH.
On the other side, SunRisers Hyderabad are determined to put the heartbreak of last year’s IPL final loss behind them. Pat Cummins, leading SRH, carries a wealth of experience and a fiercely competitive spirit. A win in their opening game at home could set the tone for a season of redemption.
ALSO READ: IPL 2025: Match 2 (SRH vs RR) – Probable XI And Fantasy XI Predictions
Historically, these two teams have clashed 20 times, with SRH holding a narrow lead of 11 victories to RR’s 9 — a rivalry that has always promised tight, gripping encounters. As the match unfolds, several player battles are expected to define the outcome. Let’s delve into three key matchups that could be pivotal in determining the winner.
#1 Yashasvi Jaiswal vs. Mohammed Shami
With Sanju Samson playing a limited role, the responsibility of building a solid innings for RR lies heavily on Yashasvi Jaiswal. The young batter has been in phenomenal form over the past two IPL seasons, amassing 625 and 435 runs, respectively. Tasked with halting Jaiswal’s momentum is Mohammed Shami, making his IPL comeback after an injury-laden year. Acquired for a hefty INR 10 crore, Shami will be eager to replicate his 2023 form, where he clinched the Purple Cap with 28 wickets. This face-off between an in-form batter and a veteran bowler is bound to be a spectacle.
#2 Abhishek Sharma vs. Jofra Archer
SRH’s Abhishek Sharma emerged as a breakout star last season, smashing 484 runs with a strike rate of 204. His ability to take on the bowlers in the powerplay makes him a significant threat. Enter Jofra Archer, RR’s marquee signing for 2025. Known for his express pace and accuracy, Archer had a stellar IPL 2020 with 20 wickets. However, his record against Abhishek in T20Is is shaky, leaking 61 runs from just 33 balls. Can Abhishek continue his attacking form, or will Archer’s pace unsettle him?
#3 Sanju Samson vs. Pat Cummins
Sanju Samson, despite his injury, remains a crucial figure for RR. If he takes the field, the matchup against Pat Cummins could be critical. Cummins, one of the best powerplay bowlers in the league, has scalped 21 wickets in the initial overs. His record against Samson is respectable, conceding just 20 runs in 15 balls. An injured Samson facing Cummins’ pace will be a fascinating duel.
As both teams aim for a strong start, this contest has all the ingredients of a blockbuster IPL clash.
