IPL 2026: Sunrisers Hyderabad’s strongest predicted XI against Punjab Kings

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) currently sit sixth on the points table in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, with just one win from three matches. Their most recent outing ended in a narrow defeat against Lucknow Super Giants, where they failed to defend a modest total. The 2016 champions will be eager to bounce back strongly and regain momentum as they face Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Match 17 at New Chandigarh.

Here’s SRH’s predicted playing XI for Match 17 versus PBKS

Top Order: Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan (C & WK)

SRH are expected to stick with their explosive opening pair of Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head. Although both were dismissed cheaply by Mohammed Shami in the previous match, they have shown their capability in earlier games, including a solid performance against Kolkata Knight Riders. Captain Ishan Kishan is likely to bat at No. 3, where his aggressive yet composed approach can help stabilise and accelerate the innings.

Middle Order: Nitish Kumar Reddy, Heinrich Klaasen, Liam Livingstone, Aniket Verma, Harsh Dubey

The middle order combines youth and experience. Nitish Kumar Reddy plays a key role as an all-rounder and impressed in the close contest against LSG. Heinrich Klaasen has been in outstanding form, scoring consecutive fifties and anchoring the innings when needed. Liam Livingstone adds depth as a power-hitting all-rounder, though he will look to improve his recent performances. Youngsters Aniket Verma and Harsh Dubey provide balance, with the ability to accelerate in the death overs and contribute with the ball, especially in spin-friendly conditions.

Bowlers: Shivang Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Harshal Patel

SRH’s bowling unit will feature left-arm wrist spinner Shivang Kumar, who, despite not picking many wickets, has delivered crucial overs. The pace attack will be led by Jaydev Unadkat and Harshal Patel. Both bowlers have shown flashes of effectiveness but need to deliver more consistently to help SRH secure victories.

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) predicted playing XI vs Punjab Kings (PBKS): 

Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan (C & WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Heinrich Klaasen, Liam Livingstone, Aniket Verma, Harsh Dubey, Shivang Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Harshal Patel

Impact Player: Eshan Malinga