In a high-stakes encounter in the 31st match IPL 2026, Sunrisers Hyderabad horns locked with Capitals of Delhi at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. With both teams closely placed in the points table – SRH fourth and DC fifth – the contest has yielded significant playoff implications. Delhi Capitals captain Axar Patel won the toss and elected to field first, showing confidence in chasing on a batting-friendly surface. However, one of the most talked about points ahead of the game was the absence of Sunrisers Hyderabad’s promising paceman. Dust Hinge playing XI.
Tactical adjustments from both camps
Delhi Capitals opted for a minimal but strategic change. They brought it inside Nitish Rana strengthening their middle order by replacing Augib Nabi. The move underscored DC’s intention to add stability and experience as they run under lights in Hyderabad, known for high-scoring games. As Akhar celebrated his 100th appearance for the franchise, the Capitals focused on composure and pitching depth.
On the other hand, Sunrisers Hyderabad have made more noticeable changes. They gave debut to the Sri Lankan left arm pacer Dilshan Madushanka and included Tough Dubey to strengthen the bowling unit. The changes came at the expense of Hinge and England All-rounder Liam LivingstoneWith Livingstone moving to the Impact Substitute’s bench, it shows a flexible strategy based on match conditions.
Why is Praful Hinge not playing today’s match?
Although Ishan Kishi did not specify the reason, but it appears that Hinge’s omission was a tactical decision shaped by recent performances and on-field dynamics rather than due to injury. The young pacer made a dream debut earlier in the season and scored a sensational four-wicket haul. Rajasthan Royals and immediately make headlines. However, in the upcoming match, his form dropped a bit Chennai Super Kings.
Despite successfully defending 18 runs in a tense final, Hinge proved costly, conceding 60 runs in four overs while taking just one wicket. On a Hyderabad pitch that has traditionally favored batting, the team management likely preferred bowlers who could offer tighter control and variation.
Madushanka’s inclusion suggests that SRH are interested in using the left-arm pace and swing, especially in the early overs. His international experience and ability to hit the new ball may have tipped the balance in his favour. Meanwhile, Dubey’s selection has added depth and agility to the bowling attack.
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Both sides play 11
Capitals of Delhi: Pathum Nissanka, KL Rahul (wk), Sameer Rizvi, Nitish Rana, Tristan Stubbs, Axar Patel (c), David Miller, Kuldeep Yadav, Mukesh Kumar, T Natarajan, Lungi Ngidi
Sunrisers Hyderabad: Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan (c), Heinrich Klaasen, Salil Arora (wk), Aniket Verma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivang Kumar, Harsh Dubey, Sakib Hussain, Eshan Malinga.
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