IPL 2026: Kolkata Knight Riders' strongest predicted XI against Sunrisers Hyderabad

Published - 02 May 2026, 17:53 IST | Updated - 02 May 2026, 19:24 IST

Sunrisers Hyderabad host the Kolkata Knight Riders in match No. 45 of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Sunday, May 3.

The Orange Army must be on a high after winning five games in a row. The return of Pat Cummins has only made the team stronger. Sunrisers Hyderabad have been known for their formidable batting department over the years. Ahead of the business end of the tournament, the big guns have started firing on all cylinders.

Meanwhile, the Knight Riders had an abysmal start to the season. They lost five out of their first six matches in IPL 2026. Ajinkya Rahane and Co. have won their last two matches, but there is very little room for error left. The Knights have a good record against Sunrisers and would want to avenge the 65-run defeat they suffered against them earlier this season.

Skipper Ajinkya Rahane has to lead from the front on Sunday. Time is running out for him after a string of low scores. Sunil Narine might be promoted to open the batting once again. Tim Seifert hasn't been able to cement his place in the side, and he could make way for Matheesha Pathirana. Narine has also been brilliant with the ball and is averaging just 6.67. Angkrish Raghuvanshi could don the wicketkeeping gloves yet again. He started the season with consecutive half-centuries, but in recent matches, he has struggled big time.