The 55th match of IPL 2025 promises to be a high-stakes encounter as Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) host Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on May 5. With the playoffs fast approaching, this clash carries massive significance—especially for SRH, who face elimination if they suffer another defeat.
SRH are languishing in ninth place, having won just three of their ten matches. They head into this fixture on the back of a disappointing loss to the Gujarat Titans. While Abhishek Sharma showcased some fine form in that match, his valiant effort wasn’t enough to steer the team home. The bowling unit, in particular, has been under the scanner for conceding far too many runs, and unless they tighten things up, their campaign could end prematurely.
On the other hand, Delhi Capitals find themselves in a better position but can’t afford to relax. With six wins from ten games, they sit in the playoff zone but know a single slip-up could derail their momentum. Led by Axar Patel, the Capitals have had an inconsistent run lately, though Faf du Plessis offered hope with a solid knock in their previous game against KKR.
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Historically, these two teams have shared a tight rivalry. In 25 meetings, SRH have a slight edge with 13 wins, while DC have won 12—including a thrilling Super Over finish in 2021. Earlier this season, DC triumphed over SRH by seven wickets. At Hyderabad, the head-to-head is even at 3-3, setting the stage for a potential thriller.
As IPL 2025 heats up, individual matchups are becoming more crucial. Among the most anticipated are three compelling duels that could shape the outcomes of key games.
#1 KL Rahul vs Harshal Patel
KL Rahul, batting in the middle order this season, has been Delhi’s backbone with 371 runs at an impressive average of 53. His strike rate of 142.85 against Harshal Patel across IPL encounters suggests he’s comfortable facing the crafty pacer. However, Harshal has dismissed Rahul once in four meetings and is in solid form himself, having already bagged two four-wicket hauls this season. With 13 wickets at a slightly expensive economy of 9.50, Harshal remains a threat, especially in the slog overs.
#2 Faf du Plessis vs Mohammed Shami
Veteran opener Faf du Plessis will square off against Mohammed Shami, who hasn’t had the best IPL 2025 so far—just six wickets at 11.23 runs per over. Despite the dip, Shami has removed Faf twice in 11 IPL face-offs. But Faf has dominated him overall, scoring 116 off 66 balls at a blistering strike rate of 178.78.
#3 Travis Head vs Mitchell Starc
The clash of the Aussies—Travis Head versus Mitchell Starc—could set the powerplay on fire. Starc has dismissed Head in their last two IPL meetings and would be eyeing a hat-trick of sorts. Head, averaging 28.10 this season, has shown flashes of brilliance but will need to be cautious early against Starc’s fiery pace.
