IPL 2025: Sunrisers Hyderabad Knocked Out of Playoff Race as Rain Washes Out Clash Against Delhi Capitals

Hyderabad, May 6, 2025 — Sunrisers Hyderabad’s hopes of making it to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 playoffs officially ended on Monday evening after their match against Delhi Capitals was abandoned due to relentless rain and an unplayable outfield at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.

Despite a promising bowling performance, persistent showers denied the hosts a full game, leading to both teams sharing a point. With this result, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) now have only 7 points from 11 matches, making it mathematically impossible for them to finish in the top four on the points table. SRH thus becomes the third franchise to be eliminated from the playoff race this season.

Rain Dampens Hyderabad’s Last Playoff Chance

The game in Hyderabad was marked by intermittent rain right from the toss, which SRH captain Pat Cummins won and opted to bowl first — a decision that paid early dividends. However, the weather continued to worsen as the day progressed, resulting in a premature end to the contest after just one completed innings.

The washout was a massive blow to Sunrisers, who had to win their remaining games to stay in playoff contention. A victory against Delhi Capitals might have kept their faint hopes alive, but the shared point leaves them languishing near the bottom of the table.

The match was officially called off after repeated inspections, with ground conditions deemed unsafe for further play.

SRH Bowlers Shine in Truncated Match

Before the weather took control, Sunrisers Hyderabad produced an impressive bowling display. Under the leadership of Pat Cummins, SRH’s attack dismantled Delhi Capitals’ top order within the first eight overs.

Pat Cummins led from the front, dismissing Karun Nair with an outswinger in the very first over. He then claimed the wicket of veteran Faf du Plessis in his second, inducing a mistimed pull that was comfortably caught behind the stumps. Abhishek Porel followed suit, falling to Cummins while attempting an ill-judged flick shot.

Further damage was done by pacers Harshal Patel and Jaydev Unadkat, who removed Axar Patel and KL Rahul respectively. At one stage, Delhi Capitals were reeling at 29 for 5 in just 7.1 overs, facing the prospect of a sub-100 total.

However, a crucial 66-run partnership between Tristan Stubbs and impact substitute Ashutosh Sharma helped Delhi recover to a respectable 133 for 7 in 20 overs. Stubbs remained unbeaten on 41 off 36 balls, while Sharma contributed a brisk 41 off just 26 deliveries, including three sixes and two fours.

Their partnership not only stabilized the innings but also gave Delhi something to defend, had the match continued. Unfortunately for both sides, the rain never relented.

Playoff Picture: Delhi Hangs On, Hyderabad Bows Out

With the abandoned match, Delhi Capitals added one point to their tally and remain in the hunt for a playoff spot. Their position in the standings will now hinge on the outcomes of their remaining matches and net run rate calculations.

On the other hand, this marks yet another disappointing season for Sunrisers Hyderabad, a team that once lifted the IPL trophy in 2016. With just seven points from eleven matches, their playoff dreams for 2025 are now over.

This season, SRH struggled with consistency across departments. While the bowling unit showed flashes of brilliance — especially with Cummins and young guns like Umran Malik and Mayank Markande — their batting lineup often failed to fire collectively. This inconsistency ultimately cost them valuable points in tight contests.

Match Summary

Match: Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Delhi Capitals
Venue: Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad
Result: Match abandoned due to rain
Delhi Capitals Innings: 133/7 (20 overs)
Top Scorers: Tristan Stubbs 41* (36), Ashutosh Sharma 41 (26)
Top Bowlers (SRH): Pat Cummins 3 wickets, Harshal Patel 1 wicket, Jaydev Unadkat 1 wicket
Points Awarded: SRH 1, DC 1

What’s Next?

Delhi Capitals will now focus on their next fixture, which could decide their playoff fortunes depending on other results. With the table tightly packed, every point and run rate differential becomes crucial in the final leg of the league stage.

For Sunrisers Hyderabad, the remainder of the season will be an opportunity to test bench strength, groom younger talent, and start planning for the 2026 edition. Team management may also consider key changes in squad strategy, leadership, and overseas player combinations going forward.

As the IPL 2025 enters its decisive phase, the race to the playoffs intensifies — with teams battling not just opponents but also the weather, fitness concerns, and net run rates.