RCB vs SRH. Image Credits: AP
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) faced a significant setback ahead of their IPL 2026 campaign, as one of their key foreign players suffered an injury and missed the opening match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on March 28.
Notably, this unexpected development created concern within the SRH camp; however, the much-anticipated IPL opener still delivered a thrilling contest with both teams displaying attacking intent.
SRH posted a competitive total
After being put in to bat, SRH produced a strong total of 201/9. Captain Ishan Kishan led from the front with a commanding 80 off 38 balls. Furthermore, young batter Aniket Verma added valuable momentum with a quickfire 43 off 18 balls, ensuring the innings finished on a high note.
At the same time, RCB bowlers made notable contributions. Jacob Duffy impressed on debut with figures of 3/22, while Romario Shepherd also claimed three wickets. Even so, SRH managed to cross the 200-run mark, setting up a challenging target.
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RCB cruise to victory
In response, the defending champions approached the chase with confidence. Devdutt Padikkal set the tone early, smashing 61 off 26 balls with a series of boundaries. Subsequently, Virat Kohli anchored the innings with an unbeaten 69 off 38 balls, guiding the team with composure and control.
Moreover, the duo combined for a 101-run partnership in just 45 deliveries, which effectively shifted the match in RCB’s favour. As a result, the hosts chased down the target in under 16 overs, finishing at 203/4 and securing a convincing six-wicket win.
Meanwhile, SRH’s bowling unit struggled to contain the scoring, as several bowlers conceded heavily, which further eased the chase.
SRH head coach Daniel Vettori shares injury update
Following the match, head coach Daniel Vettori provided clarity on the injury. Vettori revealed that Brydon Carse had been struck on his bowling hand during a net session.
Although medical checks confirmed no fracture, swelling made it difficult for him to grip the ball properly, which ruled him out of the game.
“He (Brydon Carse) got hit on the hand in the nets when he was batting, on his bowling hand, cleared of any break, but quite a lot of swelling and he tried to push for the game, but it was difficult for him to hold the ball," Daniel Vettori said at the post-match press conference.
In addition, the coach stated that Carse has been showing signs of improvement, and therefore, the team remains hopeful about his availability for the next match.
“He (Brydon Carse) has been improving, so we are hoping he is available for selection for Kolkata," Vettori added.
Notably, if he returns to the playing XI, either David Payne or Ehsan Malinga may have to make way.
Despite previous injury concerns, Sunrisers Hyderabad retained Brydon Carse for IPL 2026 at a price of INR 1 crore ahead of the mini auction. The England seam-bowling all-rounder had missed the IPL last season due to a toe issue; nevertheless, the franchise continued to back him.
Meanwhile, SRH will next face KKR at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on April 2.
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