Introduction
The Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Punjab Kings timeline is one of the most entertaining rivalries in the history of the Indian Premier League. Over the years, these two franchises have delivered thrilling last-over finishes, explosive batting displays, and unforgettable bowling performances that have kept IPL fans glued to their screens.
From David Warner’s dominance for Sunrisers Hyderabad to Punjab Kings’ aggressive batting eras led by stars like KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, and later Shreyas Iyer, the rivalry has evolved dramatically since SRH entered the IPL in 2013. The Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Punjab Kings timeline includes high-scoring encounters, dramatic collapses, close finishes, and several record-breaking moments.
In this detailed guide, we explore the complete Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Punjab Kings timeline, including head-to-head records, major matches, historic performances, timeline tables, key milestones, player records, and the latest 2025–2026 updates.
Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Punjab Kings Overview / Background
The rivalry began in 2013 when Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) replaced the now-defunct Deccan Chargers in the IPL. Punjab Kings, formerly known as Kings XI Punjab, were already one of the original IPL franchises since 2008.
While the rivalry initially lacked the intensity of some traditional IPL clashes, it gradually became exciting due to the contrasting styles of both teams:
- Sunrisers Hyderabad built their identity around disciplined bowling and smart captaincy.
- Punjab Kings became known for fearless batting and unpredictable performances.
Over time, the rivalry produced some unforgettable IPL moments:
- SRH’s bowling domination during the David Warner era
- Punjab’s explosive batting seasons under KL Rahul
- Record-breaking run chases in the 2020s
- Multiple matches decided in the final over
The rivalry matters because it consistently delivers entertainment and often influences playoff qualification races.
Early Era of Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Punjab Kings Timeline (2013–2015)
The early years of the rivalry were dominated by Sunrisers Hyderabad. SRH quickly established themselves as a disciplined side with bowlers like Dale Steyn, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Amit Mishra.
2013 Season – The Beginning
The first-ever SRH vs PBKS clash took place on April 19, 2013, in Hyderabad. SRH won by 5 wickets thanks to strong performances from their bowling unit.
Later that season, SRH defeated Punjab again in Mohali by 30 runs. This gave Hyderabad an early psychological advantage in the rivalry.
2014 – Punjab’s Explosive Response
The 2014 IPL season marked Punjab’s resurgence. Led by George Bailey, Kings XI Punjab became one of the most dangerous batting sides.
Punjab defeated SRH twice in 2014:
- A massive 72-run win in Sharjah
- A comfortable 6-wicket victory in Hyderabad
Glenn Maxwell and David Miller played major roles during this period.
2015 – SRH Bounce Back
Sunrisers Hyderabad regained control in 2015. The team relied heavily on:
- David Warner
- Shikhar Dhawan
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar
SRH won both encounters in 2015, including a thrilling 5-run victory in Hyderabad.
The rivalry was becoming increasingly competitive, setting the stage for a dramatic middle era.
Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Punjab Kings Mid Era Timeline (2016–2020)
Between 2016 and 2020, the rivalry entered its most competitive phase. Both teams featured star players capable of changing games single-handedly.
2016 – SRH Championship Season
The 2016 season was historic for SRH because they won their first IPL title under David Warner.
SRH defeated Punjab twice that season:
- By 5 wickets in Hyderabad
- By 7 wickets in Mohali
Warner consistently dominated Punjab’s bowling attack during this era.
2017 – Bowlers Take Over
The 2017 season saw SRH continue their dominance with two wins over Punjab Kings.
Key highlights:
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s brilliant death bowling
- Rashid Khan emerging as a match-winner
- Warner scoring crucial runs at the top
SRH’s bowling attack became one of the best in IPL history.
2018 – Punjab’s Revenge Season
Punjab finally responded strongly in 2018.
Led by KL Rahul, Punjab won two of the three meetings that year. Rahul’s aggressive batting transformed Punjab into a dangerous powerplay team.
One notable match saw Punjab defeat SRH by 15 runs despite a late SRH fightback.
2019 – Warner’s Masterclass
David Warner delivered one of his best performances against Punjab in 2019.
SRH won by 45 runs after Warner played a dominant innings supported by strong bowling from Rashid Khan and Khaleel Ahmed.
2020 – UAE IPL Drama
The IPL moved to the UAE due to the pandemic, and SRH vs PBKS produced two memorable matches.
- SRH crushed Punjab by 69 runs in Dubai.
- Punjab later won a close match by 12 runs.
This season highlighted the growing unpredictability of the rivalry.
Modern Era of Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Punjab Kings Timeline (2021–2024)
The rivalry entered a new era with major squad changes and aggressive modern T20 strategies.
2021 – Close Contests
SRH won the first encounter by 9 wickets in Chennai. However, Punjab bounced back with a thrilling 5-run victory in Sharjah.
Young talents like:
- Aiden Markram
- Arshdeep Singh
- Ravi Bishnoi
began shaping the rivalry.
2022 – Split Results
Both teams won one game each in 2022.
Punjab’s batting power improved significantly, while SRH continued to depend on balanced bowling attacks.
2023 – SRH Return Strongly
SRH comfortably defeated Punjab by 8 wickets in Hyderabad.
Key highlights:
- Efficient chase by SRH
- Strong bowling performance from Mayank Markande
- Calm batting under pressure
2024 – High-Scoring Thriller Era Begins
The 2024 season transformed the rivalry into a batting spectacle.
April 2024 Thriller
SRH defeated Punjab by just 2 runs in Mullanpur after defending a huge total.
May 2024 Clash
SRH chased successfully again in Hyderabad.
Players like:
- Travis Head
- Heinrich Klaasen
- Abhishek Sharma
changed SRH’s batting identity completely.
The rivalry shifted from low-scoring tactical battles to explosive run-fests.
Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Punjab Kings Timeline: 2025–2026 Update
This is the most important phase in the Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Punjab Kings timeline because both teams embraced ultra-aggressive T20 cricket.
IPL 2025 – Historic Run Chase
One of the greatest matches in IPL history occurred in April 2025.
Match Summary
- Punjab Kings: 245/6
- Sunrisers Hyderabad: 247/2
SRH completed the chase in only 18.3 overs.
Abhishek Sharma’s Record Knock
Abhishek Sharma smashed:
- 141 runs off 55 balls
- Multiple sixes across all parts of the ground
This became one of the highest successful run chases in IPL history.
Travis Head Partnership
Travis Head added explosive support with a rapid half-century, making SRH look unstoppable during the chase.
IPL 2026 – Punjab Kings Fight Back
In IPL 2026, Punjab Kings finally produced a major comeback victory.
Match Result
- SRH: 219/6
- PBKS: 223/4
Punjab chased down the target with six wickets remaining.
Key Performers
- Shreyas Iyer: 69 runs
- Priyansh Arya: 57 off 20 balls
- Aggressive powerplay batting changed the game
The 2026 clash proved the rivalry is entering another exciting chapter.
Complete Timeline Table
| Year | Event | Result | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | First SRH vs PBKS Match | SRH won by 5 wickets | Rivalry begins |
| 2013 | Mohali Encounter | SRH won by 30 runs | Dale Steyn brilliance |
| 2014 | Sharjah Match | PBKS won by 72 runs | Maxwell domination |
| 2014 | Hyderabad Clash | PBKS won by 6 wickets | Miller finishes chase |
| 2015 | Mohali Match | SRH won by 20 runs | Warner special |
| 2015 | Hyderabad Thriller | SRH won by 5 runs | Tight finish |
| 2016 | Hyderabad Match | SRH won by 5 wickets | SRH title-winning season |
| 2016 | Mohali Match | SRH won by 7 wickets | Warner consistency |
| 2017 | Hyderabad Match | SRH won by 5 runs | Rashid Khan impact |
| 2017 | Mohali Clash | SRH won by 26 runs | Strong SRH bowling |
| 2018 | Mohali Match | PBKS won by 6 wickets | KL Rahul attack |
| 2018 | Punjab Victory | PBKS won by 15 runs | Gayle fireworks |
| 2018 | Hyderabad Revenge | SRH won by 13 runs | Balanced SRH performance |
| 2019 | Hyderabad Match | SRH won by 45 runs | Warner brilliance |
| 2020 | Dubai Match | SRH won by 69 runs | Complete domination |
| 2020 | UAE Thriller | PBKS won by 12 runs | Late comeback |
| 2021 | Chennai Match | SRH won by 9 wickets | Easy chase |
| 2021 | Sharjah Match | PBKS won by 5 runs | Nail-biting finish |
| 2022 | Navi Mumbai Match | SRH won by 7 wickets | Clinical batting |
| 2022 | Mumbai Match | PBKS won by 5 wickets | Livingstone power |
| 2023 | Hyderabad Match | SRH won by 8 wickets | Bowling masterclass |
| 2024 | Mullanpur Thriller | SRH won by 2 runs | Last-over drama |
| 2024 | Hyderabad Chase | SRH won by 4 wickets | Klaasen finish |
| 2025 | Historic Chase | SRH won by 8 wickets | Abhishek Sharma 141 |
| 2026 | New Chandigarh Match | PBKS won by 6 wickets | Iyer-led chase |
Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Punjab Kings Head-to-Head Stats
| Category | Sunrisers Hyderabad | Punjab Kings |
|---|---|---|
| Matches Won | 17 | 8 |
| Highest Total | 247/2 | 245/6 |
| Lowest Total | 114 | 119 |
| Biggest Win Margin | 69 runs | 72 runs |
| Highest Successful Chase | 247/2 | 223/4 |
| Most Runs | David Warner | KL Rahul |
| Most Wickets | Bhuvneshwar Kumar | Arshdeep Singh |
| Most Sixes | Abhishek Sharma | Chris Gayle |
| Closest Victory | 2 runs | 5 runs |
Top Records & Milestones
Highest Team Total
Sunrisers Hyderabad – 247/2 (2025)
This became one of the highest successful chases in IPL history.
Highest Individual Score
Abhishek Sharma – 141 (55 balls) against Punjab Kings in 2025.
Best Bowling Figures
Bhuvneshwar Kumar produced multiple match-winning spells against Punjab during SRH’s dominant years.
Most Runs in Rivalry
David Warner remains the leading run scorer in SRH vs PBKS matches.
Most Memorable Partnership
The partnership between Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head in 2025 changed modern IPL batting expectations.
Biggest Win
Punjab Kings’ 72-run win in Sharjah 2014 remains their largest victory over SRH.
Interesting Trivia
- SRH dominated the rivalry for nearly a decade.
- Punjab’s batting improved dramatically after 2018.
- The rivalry now regularly produces 200+ scores.
FAQs
Q: Who has won more matches between SRH and PBKS?
A: Sunrisers Hyderabad have historically dominated the rivalry, winning significantly more matches than Punjab Kings since 2013.
Q: What is the highest score in SRH vs PBKS matches?
A: Sunrisers Hyderabad’s 247/2 during the 2025 chase against Punjab Kings is the highest total in the rivalry.
Q: Who scored the highest individual score in this rivalry?
A: Abhishek Sharma scored 141 runs off 55 balls for SRH in IPL 2025, making it the highest individual score in SRH vs PBKS history.
Q: Which player has the most runs in SRH vs PBKS matches?
A: David Warner is widely regarded as the leading run scorer in this rivalry due to his consistency between 2013 and 2021.
Q: What was the closest SRH vs PBKS match?
A: The 2024 IPL clash in Mullanpur was among the closest contests, with SRH winning by just 2 runs.
Q: Why is the SRH vs PBKS rivalry becoming more popular?
A: The rivalry has evolved into a high-scoring battle featuring aggressive batting, record chases, and exciting young players, making it highly entertaining for fans.
Conclusion
The Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Punjab Kings timeline showcases how IPL rivalries can evolve over time. What started as a tactical battle dominated by SRH’s bowlers has transformed into a modern batting spectacle filled with massive totals, fearless hitters, and dramatic finishes.
From David Warner’s dominance to Abhishek Sharma’s record-breaking innings, every era has added new excitement to this rivalry. Punjab Kings are now stronger and more balanced, while SRH continue to redefine aggressive T20 cricket.
As IPL moves deeper into the 2020s, fans can expect the Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Punjab Kings timeline to produce even more unforgettable moments in future seasons.