The Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Rajasthan Royals timeline is a story of one of the most competitive rivalries in IPL history. Both franchises have delivered some of the most thrilling matches since their first encounter in 2013. With every season, this rivalry has only grown in intensity, particularly after their unforgettable clashes in IPL 2023, 2024, and the recent battle in IPL 2025, which added another dramatic chapter.
In this blog post, we will explore their journey through the seasons, highlight their head-to-head record, key players, game-changing moments, and the most recent updates from IPL 2025.
Head-to-Head Record Between SRH and RR (Till 2025)
As of the end of IPL 2025, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) have faced each other in 21 matches across various IPL seasons. Their rivalry remains almost even, showcasing how closely matched these two teams have been over the years.
- Total Matches Played: 21
- SRH Wins: 11
- RR Wins: 10
- Last Match (IPL 2025): RR defeated SRH by 4 wickets in the league stage
What makes this rivalry special is the balance of wins and the consistently competitive nature of their clashes. The result could swing in either direction, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
The Beginning of the Rivalry – 2013 to 2015
The first chapter of the SRH vs RR rivalry began in IPL 2013, when Sunrisers Hyderabad entered the tournament. Rajasthan Royals had already established themselves as a dynamic team with explosive hitters and sharp bowlers. In their first clash in 2013, RR came out on top, defeating SRH comfortably. That same season, RR also knocked SRH out of the Eliminator match, ending their playoff dreams.
In 2015, David Warner began to cement his role as SRH’s captain and lead batsman. Under his leadership, SRH managed a narrow 7-run win against RR, thanks to Warner’s 61 and a tight bowling display.
Revival of the Rivalry – 2018 and 2019
After returning from suspension, Rajasthan Royals were eager to re-establish their dominance in 2018. The season saw both teams sharing wins, with SRH winning their home match and RR bouncing back in the return fixture. Sanju Samson’s brilliant innings and Rashid Khan’s match-winning spells stood out in these games.
The 2019 season was equally dramatic. Warner and Bairstow’s opening partnerships caused headaches for the Royals. In one of the most entertaining matches, Warner smashed 69 while Rashid Khan sealed the deal with his 3-wicket haul.
IPL 2020–2022: Close Finishes and Rising Stars
The next few years saw a pattern of close finishes, showcasing how well both teams had evolved. In IPL 2020, Rahul Tewatia played a blinder, taking RR to a dramatic win despite SRH being ahead for most of the match.
In IPL 2021 and 2022, young stars like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Abhishek Sharma made their mark. These years were all about building for the future, and both teams began nurturing Indian talent while keeping strong overseas players in key positions.
IPL 2023: High-Scoring Encounters
The 2023 season delivered two of the most memorable SRH vs RR clashes. In the first match, RR posted a massive 220/3, with Yashasvi Jaiswal scoring 70 runs off just 40 balls. SRH couldn’t match the pace and lost by 72 runs.
In the reverse fixture, Sunrisers Hyderabad pulled off a miracle, chasing 215 runs with a last-ball six by Abdul Samad. This win became one of the top moments of IPL 2023 and highlighted the unpredictability of this matchup.
IPL 2024: Playoff Showdown
One of the biggest highlights in this timeline was the IPL 2024 Qualifier match between SRH and RR. Sunrisers Hyderabad, powered by a composed 74 from Heinrich Klaasen and a fiery spell from Bhuvneshwar Kumar, defeated Rajasthan Royals by 36 runs to enter the IPL finals.
Rajasthan’s star players like Jos Buttler and Sanju Samson failed to fire under pressure, while SRH’s game plan executed to perfection, especially with their death bowling.
IPL 2025: RR Makes a Comeback
The most recent clash in IPL 2025 once again shifted the momentum. In the league match held at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Rajasthan Royals defeated SRH by 4 wickets.
- SRH Score: 178/6 (Klaasen 49, Tripathi 34)
- RR Chase: 182/6 (Jaiswal 54, Parag 38*)
- Result: RR won by 4 wickets with 3 balls remaining
The standout performers were Yashasvi Jaiswal, who once again proved his class, and Riyan Parag, who anchored the chase with a cool head. RR’s victory helped them stay in the top four, while SRH found themselves needing crucial wins in the remaining fixtures.
Top Performers in SRH vs RR History
Over the years, several players have stood out in SRH vs RR matches. These individuals often made the difference in tight contests.
Top Batsmen:
- David Warner (SRH) – Over 460 runs in this rivalry
- Sanju Samson (RR) – Consistently scored across seasons
- Yashasvi Jaiswal (RR) – Rapidly becoming a SRH tormentor
- Heinrich Klaasen (SRH) – Power-hitter in recent seasons
Top Bowlers:
- Rashid Khan (SRH) – Wicket-taker in key games
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar (SRH) – Effective in powerplay and death overs
- Yuzvendra Chahal (RR) – Controlled middle overs
- Trent Boult (RR) – Dangerous with new ball
How Strategies Have Changed Over the Years
Rajasthan Royals’ Strategy:
In recent seasons, RR has focused on developing Indian talent, investing in young batters like Jaiswal and Parag. They rely on early wickets from Boult and tight spin overs by Ashwin and Chahal. Their middle-order still depends on finishers like Hetmyer and all-rounders like Tewatia.
Sunrisers Hyderabad’s Strategy:
SRH evolved from being a bowling-dominant side to a more balanced unit. With explosive players like Klaasen, Tripathi, and Samad in the batting unit, and bowlers like Natarajan and Bhuvi in charge of the death overs, SRH maintains a flexible and attacking approach.
Summary Table: SRH vs RR Stats (Updated Till 2025)
| Category | Sunrisers Hyderabad | Rajasthan Royals |
|---|---|---|
| Matches Played | 21 | 21 |
| Matches Won | 11 | 10 |
| Highest Total | 217/6 | 220/3 |
| Most Runs (Player) | David Warner – 463 | Sanju Samson – 447 |
| Best Bowling Figures | Rashid Khan – 4/22 | Yuzvendra Chahal – 3/18 |
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Final Thoughts
The Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Rajasthan Royals timeline showcases one of the most balanced and entertaining rivalries in IPL. From nail-biting finishes to playoff thrillers and the rise of young stars, each game has had its own flavor.
As of IPL 2025, both teams continue to push each other to the limit. Whether you’re a fan of SRH’s calculated aggression or RR’s unpredictable flair, there’s no doubt this clash will remain one of the IPL’s most talked-about encounters.
FAQs About Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Rajasthan Royals Timeline
Q1. How many matches have SRH and RR played in IPL till 2025?
They’ve played 21 matches, with SRH winning 11 and RR winning 10.
Q2. Who won the latest SRH vs RR match in IPL 2025?
Rajasthan Royals won the IPL 2025 league match by 4 wickets.
Q3. Who is the top scorer in SRH vs RR history?
David Warner leads with over 460 runs against Rajasthan Royals.
Q4. Which SRH player has the best bowling record against RR?
Rashid Khan holds the best figures with 4/22.
Q5. What was the most dramatic match in their rivalry?
The 2023 thriller where Abdul Samad hit a last-ball six to chase 215 remains iconic.
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