IPL 2026: Abhishek Sharma’s century, Eshan Malinga's four-fer power SRH to third win on the trot

NEW DELHI: Opener Abhishek Sharma played a stunning innings and completely dominated Delhi Capitals as Sunrisers Hyderabad won comfortably by 47 runs in Hyderabad on Tuesday. This was their third consecutive victory in IPL 2026.

His unbeaten 135 off just 68 balls powered SRH to a massive 242/2 on a flat pitch, leaving DC with no real chance in the chase.

Abhishek was in destructive form right from the start, smashing 10 sixes and 10 boundaries as he tore apart the bowling attack. Even though Travis Head was not at his best, he still helped build a strong opening stand of 97 runs.

After his dismissal for 37, skipper Ishan Kishan joined Abhishek and added another quick 79-run partnership, pushing SRH into complete control.

Towards the end, Heinrich Klaasen added the finishing touch with a blistering 37 off 13 balls, helping SRH reach an unthinkable total of 242/2.

Abhishek’s knock was so dominant that even a so-called slower century for him came at a strike rate above 200.

Delhi Capitals started their chase with some hope, reaching 107/1, but things quickly fell apart. Eshan Malinga (4/32) and Sakib Hussain broke the backbone of the innings, triggering a collapse that DC never recovered from. They slipped from 107/1 to 107/4 and eventually finished at 195/9.

Nitish Rana’s bowling backfired badly, going for 55 runs in four overs, while DC’s spin and pace options were poorly used. Even key bowlers like Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav were underutilised, adding to their problems.

SRH’s bowlers used smart variations and kept taking wickets at regular intervals, making the chase impossible.

SRH’s powerful batting and disciplined bowling proved far too strong, while DC’s poor tactics and repeated mistakes made the difference in a one-sided contest.