Hyderabad capped off a superb Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025–26 campaign by defeating Karnataka by 21 runs in the final, lifting the title with a performance that reflected consistency, clarity, and composure across the tournament. In a high-stakes clash between two well-matched sides, Hyderabad held their nerve better in key moments and deservedly emerged champions.
Batting first in the final, Hyderabad understood the importance of setting the tone. The surface offered decent pace and carry, but run-scoring was not effortless. Their innings was built on balance rather than blitzkrieg. The top and middle order focused on strike rotation early, ensuring wickets were preserved for the latter half. Boundaries came through placement and timing rather than blind power, which allowed Hyderabad to steadily build a competitive total without exposing themselves to collapse.
The middle overs were particularly well managed. Instead of stagnating, Hyderabad maintained momentum through smart batting and running between the wickets. As the innings progressed, calculated aggression in the final overs pushed the total to a level that immediately put Karnataka under pressure. It wasn’t an unassailable score, but it was one that demanded a disciplined chase.
Karnataka’s reply began with intent, but Hyderabad’s bowlers quickly made it clear that runs would have to be earned. Early breakthroughs disrupted Karnataka’s chase and forced their key batters to rebuild rather than attack freely. Hyderabad’s bowling unit operated with clear plans, hitting consistent lengths and varying pace intelligently to prevent Karnataka from settling.
The middle overs became the turning point of the final. Karnataka attempted to regain control through controlled aggression, but Hyderabad’s bowlers tightened the screws. Dot-ball pressure mounted, boundaries dried up, and the required run rate began to climb. Unlike earlier matches in the tournament, Karnataka were unable to find a sustained counterpunch.
Hyderabad’s fielding added another layer of pressure. Sharp catching, quick ground coverage, and alert running between the wickets ensured Karnataka were never allowed easy runs. Every misfield was avoided, every half-chance was attacked — the kind of discipline that often separates champions from contenders in finals.
As the chase entered the final phase, Karnataka needed a late surge. Hyderabad responded with calm execution at the death, sticking to yorkers, slower balls, and defensive field placements. The result was a controlled finish that saw Karnataka fall 21 runs short, sealing a comprehensive victory for Hyderabad.
This title win was the culmination of a campaign built on teamwork rather than individual dependence. While several players stepped up at different stages, Hyderabad’s biggest strength was adaptability — adjusting to conditions, opposition, and match situations without panic. Their knockout performances, including the semifinal and final, showcased maturity beyond raw talent.
For Karnataka, the loss was disappointing but not discrediting. They reached the final through solid cricket and fought hard, but on the day, Hyderabad were sharper in execution and decision-making.
Lifting the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025–26 marks a landmark achievement for Hyderabad. It validates their depth, domestic structure, and ability to handle pressure on the biggest stage. More importantly, it sends a clear message — Hyderabad are no longer just competitive participants in India’s domestic T20 scene. They are champions.
12BET Shortlisted for Sportsbook Operator of the Year at SBC Awards 2025