Travis Head showcased his destructive prowess with a stunning century, complemented by Skipper Pat Cummins' leadership, guiding Sunrisers Hyderabad to a remarkable 25-run triumph over Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a thrilling encounter.
Head's remarkable T20 century, a first for him, was a display of sheer aggression, accumulating 102 runs off just 41 balls, embellished with nine fours and eight towering sixes. Alongside Heinrich Klaasen's explosive 67 off 31 deliveries, Sunrisers set a new record by posting a mammoth total of 287 for three, eclipsing their previous best of 277/3 against Mumbai Indians earlier in the season.
Despite a spirited start to their chase, led by Skipper Faf du Plessis and Virat Kohli, who raced to 50 in just 3.5 overs, Royal Challengers faltered against the disciplined bowling of Sunrisers. The introduction of leg-spinner Mayank Markande proved pivotal, as Kohli's dismissal triggered a collapse, with RCB losing crucial wickets and failing to keep up with the escalating required run rate.
Although Faf du Plessis and Dinesh Karthik played valiant innings, their efforts were overshadowed by Sunrisers' relentless attack. Travis Head's aggressive approach, coupled with partnerships with Abhishek Sharma and Heinrich Klaasen, laid the foundation for Hyderabad's imposing total.
Despite Head's departure after his century, Klaasen assumed the role of aggressor, propelling Sunrisers past their own record score with an array of powerful strokes. Aiden Markram and Abdul Samad's late flourish further propelled Hyderabad to a record-breaking total of 287, characterized by an onslaught of 22 sixes, the highest in an IPL innings.
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