In the most exciting battle of IPL 2025 so far, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) shocked Punjab Kings (PBKS) by an 8-wicket victory, courtesy of a record-breaking century by Abhishek Sharma. But the turning point for this high-octane game came early in SRH’s innings — when Abhishek was bowled out, but was rescued by a no-ball. The call not only hushed the Punjab camp but also turned the whole momentum around.
Punjab Kings Set a Mammoth Target
Batting first at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Punjab Kings set an intimidating total of 245/6. Thanks to brilliant support from Shreyas Iyer (82) and Priyansh Arya (50), it seemed like PBKS had done just enough to clinch the game. But the drama was yet to come.
Abhishek Sharma’s Explosive Start
Pursuing 246, Abhishek Sharma stepped out with purpose. He started in an aggressive style, breaching boundaries during the initial overs and sprinting towards his first IPL century. But in the third over bowled by Yash Thakur, there was an incident that proved to be the turning point of the match.
Abhishek Sharma Saved by No Ball: The Turning Point
4, 6, CAUGHT but NO-BALL, 6 on Free-hit! 🔥
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On what appeared to be a customary delivery, Abhishek made a misjudgment of a lofted shot, directing the ball directly into Shashank Singh’s hands at deep backward point. PBKS went wild in celebration, believing they had got rid of the dangerous man early. Even team owner Preity Zinta, sitting in the stands, was overjoyed.
But happiness was turned into misery instantaneously as the umpire signaled a no-ball, catching a glimpse that the overstep occurred by Yash Thakur. The catch was invalid, and the wicket wasn’t valid. One glance of defeat on the face of Zinta was enough — PBKS just lost the greatest moment of the match.
The Free-Hit Six: The Instant Retaliation
Abhishek didn’t let the lifeline go to waste. On the very next ball — a free-hit — he launched a sensational helicopter shot into the stands, signaling what was to come. That single moment sparked a storm that the PBKS bowling attack couldn’t contain.
171-Run Opening Stand Sets Up Victory
Abhishek along with Travis Head continued to thrash at PBKS bowlers. The pair sealed a mammoth 171-run partnership in just 12.2 overs that would form the initial platform for a momentous chase. Travis Head played it quite well as a supporting hand as he hammered 66 off 37 balls consisting of 9 fours and 3 sixes.
Abhishek’s First Century and Record Chase
Abhishek Sharma then came to score an amazing 141 of 55 deliveries, completing his first-ever IPL century off a mere 40 balls — among the quickest ever by an Indian in IPL. His innings not only earned the victory for SRH but were also the second-highest successful chase ever in IPL history.
A No-Ball That Changed Everything
This electrifying SRH vs PBKS IPL 2025 contest will be talked about not just for Abhishek Sharma’s blazing century but also for the no-ball lifeline that tilted the match. The moment when Abhishek Sharma was rescued by no ball became the impetus for one of the greatest victories in the history of the IPL.
ALSO READ: IPL 2025: Abhishek Sharma’s Electrifying Knock And Celebration Went Viral
