IPL 2026: Predicted Playing XI for SRH vs KKR – Match 45

Match 45 of the Indian Premier League 2026 will feature an exciting clash as Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) lock horns with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on May 3.

With the tournament entering a decisive phase, both sides have plenty at stake. SRH are riding a wave of confidence after stringing together five consecutive victories and look like one of the most well-rounded units this season. The return of skipper Pat Cummins has further strengthened their setup, especially in crunch situations.

On the other hand, KKR have had a turbulent campaign. After losing five of their first six matches, they have shown signs of revival with back-to-back wins. However, with little margin for error left, Ajinkya Rahane and his men will be desperate to build momentum and avenge their earlier 65-run loss to SRH.

Predicted Playing XI

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)

Top Order: Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan (wk)

SRH’s top order has been one of the most destructive this season. Abhishek Sharma has been in phenomenal form, piling up runs consistently and putting bowlers under pressure in the powerplay. Travis Head has complemented him well with aggressive starts, including a stunning innings against Mumbai Indians, while Ishan Kishan has added stability and firepower in equal measure with multiple impactful knocks.

Middle Order: Heinrich Klaasen, Salil Arora (wk), Aniket Verma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Pat Cummins (c), Harsh Dubey

The middle order has delivered consistently for SRH. Heinrich Klaasen has been a standout, anchoring innings while maintaining a brisk scoring rate. He is one of league’s top run-scorers so far, scoring 414 runs in just nine innings. Nitish Kumar Reddy has impressed with his all-round abilities, while Pat Cummins provides leadership and depth. Contributions from Aniket Verma and Harsh Dubey have added balance to the lineup.

Bowlers: Praful Hinge, Eshan Malinga, Sakib Hussain (Impact Player)

SRH’s bowling attack has been equally impressive. Praful Hinge has made a strong impact in limited opportunities, while Eshan Malinga has led the attack brilliantly, emerging as one of the top wicket-takers this season. Sakib Hussain is expected to play the Impact Player role, offering additional bowling strength.

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH):

Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan (WK), Heinrich Klaasen, Salil Arora (WK), Aniket Verma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Pat Cummins (C), Harsh Dubey, Praful Hinge, Eshan Malinga.

Impact Player: Sakib Hussain

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)

Top Order: Ajinkya Rahane (c), Sunil Narine, Angkrish Raghuvanshi (wk)

KKR’s top order has been inconsistent, and much will depend on skipper Ajinkya Rahane to lead from the front. Sunil Narine is likely to continue opening, providing explosive starts and contributing significantly with the ball as well. Youngster Angkrish Raghuvanshi, who began the season strongly, will look to rediscover his touch.

Middle Order: Cameron Green, Rovman Powell, Rinku Singh, Anukul Roy, Ramandeep Singh

KKR’s middle order has started to click in recent matches. Cameron Green has found rhythm with the bat, while Rovman Powell has chipped in with valuable contributions. Rinku Singh, after a slow start, comes into this game with back-to-back half-centuries, making him a key player. Anukul Roy and Ramandeep Singh provide depth and flexibility.

Bowlers: Vaibhav Arora, Kartik Tyagi, Varun Chakaravarthy, Matheesha Pathirana (Impact Player)

KKR’s bowling unit has shown improvement. Vaibhav Arora regained confidence in the previous match, while Kartik Tyagi has been their standout pacer this season. Varun Chakaravarthy has also found form after a slow start. The return of Matheesha Pathirana as Impact Player adds significant strength, particularly in the death overs.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR):

Ajinkya Rahane (C), Sunil Narine, Angkrish Raghuvanshi (WK), Cameron Green, Rovman Powell, Rinku Singh, Anukul Roy, Ramandeep Singh, Vaibhav Arora, Kartik Tyagi, Varun Chakaravarthy

Impact Player: Matheesha Pathirana

FAQs

When and where will the SRH vs KKR match be played?

The match will take place on May 3, 2026, at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, starting at 3:30 PM.

Which players could have the biggest impact in this game?

Abhishek Sharma and Heinrich Klaasen are crucial for SRH, while Rinku Singh and Sunil Narine will be key for KKR.

Which team looks stronger ahead of this contest?

SRH appear to have the edge given their current form and well-balanced squad, but KKR’s recent resurgence makes them a dangerous opponent.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

For more exclusive updates, visit BJSports to access Exclusive News that is only for you, incisive analysis, and updates, and to keep up with all of the latest information on your favorite remarkable cricket playes and teams. To ensure you never miss out, join in on the fun right away!