Punjab Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad Timeline rivalry between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) is one of the most competitive and underrated matchups in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL). While it may not always grab headlines like some of the bigger rivalries, the Punjab Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad timeline is filled with thrilling finishes, dominant performances, record-breaking moments, and unforgettable individual brilliance.
This article takes a detailed look at the evolution of this rivalry, from its early beginnings to recent encounters, highlighting key matches, turning points, star players, and statistical trends.
Early Years: Foundation of the Rivalry (2013–2015)
Punjab Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad Timeline entered the IPL in 2013, replacing the Deccan Chargers. From the very beginning, matches between Punjab (then Kings XI Punjab) and SRH were closely contested.
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First Meeting (2013 IPL):
The inaugural clash set the tone for future battles. Sunrisers Hyderabad showcased their strong bowling attack, while Punjab relied heavily on aggressive batting. SRH emerged victorious, establishing early dominance. -
Balanced Encounters:
Between 2013 and 2015, both teams traded wins. Punjab’s explosive batting lineups clashed with Hyderabad’s disciplined bowling strategies, making every encounter unpredictable.
Punjab Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad Timeline early matches laid the groundwork for a rivalry based on contrasting team philosophies—Punjab’s power-hitting versus Hyderabad’s tactical precision.
Golden Phase of Competition (2016–2018)
The period from 2016 to 2018 marked a significant chapter in the Punjab Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad Timeline.
SRH’s Title Win in 2016
Sunrisers Hyderabad won their maiden IPL title in 2016, and their confidence reflected in matches against Punjab. Led by David Warner, SRH dominated with both bat and ball.
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Warner’s consistent runs against Punjab became a recurring theme.
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SRH’s bowling unit, featuring Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Rashid Khan, often restricted Punjab to below-par totals.
Punjab’s Resurgence in 2018
In 2018, Kings XI Punjab staged a strong comeback under Ravichandran Ashwin’s captaincy.
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Punjab defeated SRH convincingly in both league matches.
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Explosive starts from KL Rahul and Chris Gayle turned games in Punjab’s favor.
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This season marked Punjab’s strongest phase against Hyderabad.
Middle Years: Shifting Momentum (2019–2021)
From 2019 onward, the rivalry became even more competitive, with momentum swinging frequently.
2019–2020: Tactical Battles
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SRH leaned heavily on Warner and Jonny Bairstow.
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Punjab relied on individual brilliance, especially from KL Rahul.
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Several matches were decided in the final overs, highlighting the intensity of the rivalry.
2021: Punjab Kings Rebrand
In 2021, Kings XI Punjab rebranded as Punjab Kings. Despite the new identity, the challenge against SRH remained tough.
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Matches during this period often featured low scores due to strong bowling on both sides.
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SRH continued to hold a slight edge in overall head-to-head records.
Recent Encounters: New Era, New Stars (2022–2024)
The modern phase of the Punjab Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad timeline has been defined by young talent and bold strategies.
Emergence of Young Players
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Players like Shubman Gill (earlier for Punjab), Abhishek Sharma, and Umran Malik brought fresh energy.
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High-scoring games became more common due to impact player rules and aggressive batting approaches.
Record-Breaking Matches
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SRH posted massive totals against Punjab, showcasing their destructive batting lineup.
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Punjab responded with thrilling chases, proving their batting depth.
These years saw both teams experimenting heavily with squads, making every encounter unpredictable.
Head-to-Head Overview
As of recent IPL seasons:
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Total Matches: Over 20
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Sunrisers Hyderabad Wins: Slightly higher
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Punjab Kings Wins: Close behind
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No Result Matches: Rare
While SRH historically holds an advantage, Punjab has frequently challenged that dominance, especially in high-scoring encounters.
Memorable Matches in the Timeline
Some standout matches that define this rivalry include:
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Lowest Total Defended by SRH against Punjab, showcasing bowling brilliance.
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Fastest Fifty by KL Rahul against SRH, a record-breaking innings.
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Super Over Thriller, where nerves of steel decided the outcome.
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Rashid Khan’s All-Round Performances, turning matches single-handedly.
Each of these games added drama and depth to the rivalry.
Key Players Who Defined the Rivalry
For Sunrisers Hyderabad
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David Warner: The most consistent run-scorer against Punjab.
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Rashid Khan: Match-winner with both bat and ball.
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Bhuvneshwar Kumar: Crucial in powerplay and death overs.
For Punjab Kings
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KL Rahul: Dominant against SRH with elegant and aggressive innings.
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Chris Gayle: Game-changing knocks that swung momentum.
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Arshdeep Singh: Key bowler in recent seasons.
These players played pivotal roles in shaping the Punjab Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad timeline.
Playing Styles and Tactical Differences
One reason this rivalry remains exciting is the contrast in approach:
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Punjab Kings:
Focus on aggressive batting, fearless chases, and individual brilliance. -
Sunrisers Hyderabad:
Emphasis on bowling discipline, strategic field placements, and calculated batting.
This clash of styles ensures closely fought contests season after season.
Impact on IPL Standings
Matches between PBKS and SRH have often influenced playoff qualifications:
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Several seasons saw one team knocking the other out of contention.
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Net run rate swings from these matches proved decisive in tight league tables.
Their encounters are not just entertaining but crucial in the broader IPL context.
Conclusion
The Punjab Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad timeline reflects everything fans love about the IPL—intensity, unpredictability, rising stars, and unforgettable moments. While Sunrisers Hyderabad may hold a slight historical edge, Punjab Kings have consistently pushed them to the limit.
As both teams continue to rebuild and evolve, this rivalry promises even more excitement in future IPL seasons. Whether it’s a nail-biting finish or a dominant performance, PBKS vs SRH matches remain must-watch contests for cricket lovers.