In IPL 2025 Match 61, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) knocked out Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) by a 6-wicket win at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. LSG, who batted first after SRH had won the toss, scored 205/7, thanks to Mitchell Marsh's 65 (39) and Aiden Markram's 61 (38). Nicholas Pooran's 45 (26) was a late flourish, but SRH's bowlers, headed by Eshan Malinga (2/28), restricted the run-rate despite Harsh Dubey's costly 1/44.

SRH's pursuit was driven by Abhishek Sharma's 59 (20) off the straps early. Heinrich Klaasen (47 off 28) and Ishan Kishan (35 off 28) ensured an easy ride with a smooth finish to 206/4 in 18.2 overs. LSG's bowlers found it hard, with Digvesh Rathi (2/37) picking crucial wickets but failing to prevent the flow of runs. Will O'Rourke (1/31) and Shardul Thakur (1/39) were unable to halt SRH's run, as LSG's fielding errors and failure to pick up wickets cost them.

This defeat ruled LSG out of playoff contention, with Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals competing for the last spot. SRH's dominating chase consolidated their playoff standing, reflecting their depth and pressure-handling capability in a do-or-die game. Here are the top reasons why LSG lost to SRH.

1. Ineffective Powerplay Bowling

LSG was unable to make early inroads in the powerplay while defending a large total. Abhishek Sharma's aggressive 59 of 20 balls simply took the game away in the first six overs. Lack of control and penetration amongst LSG's bowlers enabled SRH to score without any restraint and gain early momentum, making the chase that much more easier.

2. Lack of Ability to Defend a Strong Total

Bowlers for LSG were unable to sustain any of the pressure and threat throughout the innings in this game, despite posting a competitive score of 205/7. Since there was no bowler performing, particularly due to lack of aggression and attacking field placement, there was little sustained speculation. The best bowler was Digvesh Rathi, with little support from the other bowlers who ultimately could not contain Klaasen and Ishan Kishan (SRH middle order).

Also Read: IPL 2025, Match 61: Lucknow Super Giants vs Sunrisers Hyderabad Full Match Highlights

3. Lack of Bowling Depth and Injuries

LSG's all-season problem of injuries to major bowlers caught up with them again. The side did not have a consistent death bowling option and spin variety, which was taken advantage of by SRH's batsmen in the latter stages of the game. As captain Rishabh Pant concurred, lack of a settled bowling attack because of injuries impacted their game plans and execution.