Sunrisers Hyderabad produced a complete performance to register their first win of IPL 2026, defeating Kolkata Knight Riders by 65 runs in a high-scoring clash at Eden Gardens.

Powered by a blazing start from the “Travishek” duo—Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma—SRH raced to 82 in just 5.4 overs. Head smashed 46 off 21 balls while Abhishek struck 48 off 21, dismantling KKR’s bowling attack in the powerplay.

After a brief slowdown in the middle overs, Heinrich Klaasen anchored the innings with a composed 52 off 35 balls. His knock, combined with a late surge, propelled SRH to a formidable 226 for 8—the highest total of the season so far.

In response, KKR started aggressively, led by Finn Allen, who attacked from the outset. Angkrish Raghuvanshi then took charge, scoring a rapid 52 off 27 balls to keep the chase alive as KKR reached 110 for 3 in ten overs.

However, Raghuvanshi’s run-out proved to be the decisive turning point. From there, the innings unraveled quickly despite brief resistance from Rinku Singh. KKR were eventually bowled out for 161 in just 16 overs.

SRH’s bowlers executed their plans effectively after the powerplay. Jaydev Unadkat led the attack with 3 for 21, while Eshan Malinga and Nitish Kumar Reddy chipped in with crucial wickets to derail the chase.

The victory marked a significant moment in the tournament, as SRH became the first team this season to successfully defend a total—highlighting both their batting firepower and improved bowling execution.

For KKR, despite early promise, another defeat leaves them searching for answers, especially with their bowling and fielding inconsistencies proving costly once again.