Hyderabad continued their impressive run in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025–26 by defeating Punjab by five wickets in a high-pressure Super League encounter, successfully chasing down a target of 162 to book their place in the semifinals. The win underlined Hyderabad’s growing confidence in crunch situations and showcased their ability to balance composure with aggression in knockout-style matches.
Punjab, batting first, began with positive intent, aware that a strong total was necessary against a Hyderabad side that had looked settled throughout the tournament. Their top order provided early momentum, rotating the strike well and finding boundaries without excessive risk. As the innings progressed, Punjab aimed to accelerate in the middle overs, but Hyderabad’s bowlers applied timely pressure to prevent the score from ballooning.
Despite a few solid partnerships, Punjab were unable to fully dominate the back end of the innings. Hyderabad’s disciplined bowling in the death overs proved crucial, restricting boundary opportunities and forcing Punjab to settle for singles. The final total of 161 was competitive but not imposing — a score that left the contest finely balanced heading into the chase.
Hyderabad’s reply reflected maturity and clarity of planning. The openers ensured a steady start, focusing on strike rotation and minimising early damage rather than chasing quick boundaries. This measured approach laid the foundation for a controlled chase, keeping the required run rate within reach and avoiding panic even when wickets fell.
The middle order once again stepped up when it mattered. Hyderabad’s batters showed an ability to absorb pressure, rebuilding partnerships calmly before launching calculated attacks. Rather than relying on one explosive innings, the chase was built through collective contributions, with multiple batters chipping in at key moments.
Punjab attempted to claw their way back through variations in bowling and aggressive field placements, but Hyderabad responded intelligently. Loose deliveries were punished, while good balls were respected — a balance that kept the scoreboard ticking and frustration creeping into the opposition camp. As the chase entered its final phase, Hyderabad still had wickets in hand, a crucial advantage in T20 cricket.
The finishing stretch highlighted Hyderabad’s confidence. Instead of dragging the game deep, they accelerated decisively, closing out the chase with five wickets remaining. That composure at the end reflected a side that understands match situations and trusts its depth — a trait that separates contenders from mere participants.
This victory was more than just another win; it was a statement. Hyderabad’s qualification for the semifinals confirms their consistency across the tournament and their ability to deliver under pressure. Having already navigated close finishes and challenging chases earlier in the competition, this performance reinforced their reputation as one of the most balanced teams in the field.
For Punjab, the defeat marked a disappointing end to their campaign. While they showed flashes of quality with both bat and ball, they were unable to seize key moments in the match. Missed opportunities — particularly in the middle overs and during the latter stages of Hyderabad’s chase — ultimately proved costly.
As the tournament moves into its business end, Hyderabad carry strong momentum into the semifinals. Their blend of disciplined bowling, adaptable batting, and calm decision-making makes them a dangerous opponent in knockout cricket. This five-wicket win over Punjab was not just about advancing — it was about announcing that Hyderabad are genuine contenders for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title.
12BET Shortlisted for Sportsbook Operator of the Year at SBC Awards 2025