Batting first, Capitals aim to reignite playoff push against Hyderabad

Pic: IPL/X

Delhi Capitals skipper Axar Patel will be eager to erase memories of his team's inconsistent home performances as they aim to revive their faltering IPL 2025 campaign. On Monday, they face a struggling Sunrisers Hyderabad outfit, teetering on the verge of playoff elimination, in what could be a pivotal encounter at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.

Despite a string of recent setbacks, including a 14-run defeat to Kolkata Knight Riders, Delhi Capitals have managed to stay within reach of the playoffs, thanks largely to their commendable showings away from home. With 12 points from 10 matches, they are currently placed fifth on the table. However, they are well aware that another slip-up could cost them dearly at this critical stage of the tournament.

Patel has been one of the few bright spots in Delhi's campaign, consistently leading from the front with both bat and ball. Any absence or reduced role from the captain could prove detrimental as DC desperately seek to arrest their two-match losing streak at home, having fallen to both KKR and Royal Challengers Bangalore.

With three defeats in their last five games, Capitals cannot afford further missteps as they approach the business end of the tournament. The pressure is mounting, and consistency will be key if they hope to secure a playoff berth.

Sunrisers Hyderabad, meanwhile, have had a disappointing season despite boasting a squad rich in talent and international experience. Under the leadership of Pat Cummins and supported by the likes of Mohammed Shami, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan, Heinrich Klaasen, and Jaydev Unadkat, expectations were high. However, the results have failed to reflect the team's potential, raising questions about the synergy within the camp.

SRH's latest setback, a 38-run loss to Gujarat Titans, further dented their already slim hopes of making the playoffs. Their inability to chase down 225 exposed familiar issues, particularly in their bowling unit and their adaptability to changing pitch conditions.

India pacer Jaydev Unadkat recently addressed the team's struggles, attributing their poor run to ineffective bowling strategies and inconsistent pitch behavior, factors that have repeatedly hampered their execution.

With just three wins in 10 games, SRH finds itself near the bottom of the table and staring at early elimination. Monday's clash is, therefore, not just another league fixture, it's a last-ditch attempt at survival.