IPL 2026: Ishan deserves all the credit, says Pat Cummins after SRH's playoff-clinching win over CSK
Chennai, May 19
Sunrisers Hyderabad captain Pat Cummins credited Ishan Kishan for playing a mature and match-winning innings after SRH defeated Chennai Super Kings by five wickets to qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Monday.
Chasing 181 runs, Sunrisers Hyderabad completed the chase in 19 overs with Kishan anchoring the innings brilliantly with 70 runs off 47 balls. Heinrich Klaasen also played a crucial knock of 47 as SRH secured an important win and booked their place in the playoffs alongside the Gujarat Titans.
Speaking after the match, Cummins said the conditions at Chepauk were challenging and praised his batters for adjusting well to the surface. "Really satisfying. It's a bit different from how we normally play. Very happy. That partnership, it was really tough, we thought you need one or two really good partnerships," Cummins said after the victory.
SRH are generally known for their aggressive batting approach, but Cummins admitted the team had to show patience on a pitch where the ball was not coming onto the bat easily. "We are not famous for responsible batting. But yeah, when we were bowling, the ball was keeping low and not quite coming on. It was about par. They play here and know the wicket a lot better," he added.
After losing Travis Head early in the chase, Kishan and Abhishek Sharma rebuilt the innings before the left-hander stitched another important stand with Klaasen. Kishan rotated the strike smartly and attacked whenever needed to keep SRH in control throughout the chase.
Cummins especially praised Kishan for stepping up and guiding the innings under pressure. "Winning today was what mattered. You can't give yourselves a better chance than what we have. Ishan deserves all the credit for leading the side for the first half," Cummins said.
The SRH skipper also said there were still areas his side could improve despite the important win. "There are a few areas we can improve, but overall, we are happy," he added.
Meanwhile, after this win, SRH are placed at third in the points table with 16 points in 13 matches. They will next face defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on May 22 at their home ground, Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Hyderabad.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Honestly, I was sceptical about Ishan after his slow start this season, but this innings was pure class. His strike rotation and composure against CSK's spin attack at Chepauk were top-notch. Cummins' captaincy has been underrated too, making SRH a well-balanced side. 👏
Great win for SRH! But let's be real, CSK messed up their bowling changes and field placements again. Dhoni needs to rethink his strategies if they want to stay in the hunt. Still, Kishan played superbly, no doubt about that.
What a mature innings from Kishan! He showed he's not just a power hitter but can build an innings too. And Pat Cummins' praise says a lot, he's such a classy captain. This SRH team is peaking at the right time, looking forward to their clash with RCB! 🏏
One of the best knocks of the season! Ishan Kishan should get more opportunities in the Indian team too. His ability to pace an innings is often underrated. Cummins handling SRH brilliantly, adapting their usual 'bazball' style when needed. This is what makes IPL so exciting!
Great innings by Kishan but I feel SRH still need to improve their death bowling. Almost gave away too many runs at the end. RCB will be a tough test. Still, congrats to the team for qualifying! 🎉
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