Hyderabad: With rain gods making their presence felt in Hyderabad, the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Gujarat Titans (GT) was called off without a ball being bowled at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Thursday. Both teams shared a point each after persistent rain and drizzle forced the umpires to abandon the second game of the IPL 2024 season. This result has allowed the 2016 champions, Sunrisers Hyderabad, to secure their place in the last four of the tournament, joining Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders in the playoffs.
Sunrisers Hyderabad Eyeing Top-Two Finish
Now, with their spot in the playoffs confirmed, Pat Cummins and his team are setting their sights on securing the second position in the league standings. With a healthy net run rate of 0.406 and currently holding 15 points from 13 matches, SRH can potentially accumulate up to 17 points. This total might be enough to secure a top-two finish, contingent on the outcomes of other matches.
Rested and Ready: Sunrisers Hyderabad
After enjoying a week off, the Sunrisers were well-rested and in high spirits, especially following their record-breaking win against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on May 8. In that match, SRH’s bowlers delivered an outstanding performance, restricting LSG to a modest total. The opening duo of Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma then showcased a batting masterclass, chasing down 166 runs in just 9.4 overs, sealing a dominant 10-wicket victory at home.
A Season of Highs and Lows
Throughout IPL 2024, SRH has exhibited a pattern of securing remarkable victories alongside enduring significant defeats. Earlier in the competition, they faced a setback against Gujarat Titans, losing by 7 wickets. Despite this, the team has consistently bounced back, demonstrating resilience and determination.
Gujarat Titans Play for Pride
Shubman Gill-led Gujarat Titans arrived in Hyderabad to play for pride. Their mathematical chances of making it to the playoffs, which were already slim, were dashed entirely with the rain washout against Kolkata Knight Riders. Despite their valiant efforts and a significant win against Chennai Super Kings (CSK), the Titans’ journey in this season’s IPL has been cut short by the unrelenting weather.
As the Sunrisers prepare for their final match in the group stage, their focus remains on maintaining momentum and securing a strong finish, eyeing that coveted top-two spot in the playoffs.
