Axar Patel reveals why Sunrisers Hyderabad are favourites to win the IPL 2026 ti

Delhi Capitals ended their Indian Premier League 2026 campaign on a high, securing a comprehensive 40-run victory over Kolkata Knight Riders at the Eden Gardens. The result came in a dead rubber with both teams already eliminated from playoff contention, but the performance offered plenty of positives for Axar Patel and his side heading into the off-season.

DC’s Batting Firepower on Full Display

Opting to bat first, Delhi Capitals posted a commanding total of 203 for 6 in their 20 overs. The innings was anchored by a solid 60 from KL Rahul, who ensured a steady start before accelerating in the middle overs. Coming in at a crucial juncture, captain Axar Patel provided the late fireworks with a blistering 39 off just 25 balls, smashing three boundaries and two sixes to propel Delhi past the 200-run mark.

Kolkata’s Chase Crumbles Under Pressure

In response, Kolkata Knight Riders never found their rhythm. After a 43-run opening stand between Finn Allen (20) and Phil Salt, the middle order faltered under disciplined bowling. Manish Pandey (25) and Ajinkya Rahane added a 44-run partnership, briefly steadying the ship, but once Rahane fell for 63, the innings collapsed rapidly.

Chasing 204, KKR lost wickets in clusters and were eventually bowled out for 163 in the 19th over. Delhi’s spin-bowling duo struck deep: Kuldeep Yadav finished with figures of 3 for 28, narrowly missing out on a hat-trick when Abhishek Porel dropped an easy catch off Tejasvi Dahiya. Lungi Ngidi complemented Kuldeep perfectly with 3 for 31, ensuring the hosts never gained momentum.

Axar Patel reveals why Sunrisers Hyderabad are favourites to win the IPL 2026 ti

With the season concluded for Delhi, attention turned to the playoff race. In a post-match interview, skipper Axar Patel was asked to name his pick for the IPL 2026 champions. Without hesitation, he pointed to Pat Cummins and the Sunrisers Hyderabad.

“They are a very strong team and when their top three batters get going, they become a formidable side,”

Patel said, highlighting SRH’s consistent performances and depth in batting as critical advantages.

Sunrisers’ Path to the Final

Despite their strength, Sunrisers Hyderabad will need to overcome a hurdle in the Eliminator against Rajasthan Royals on Wednesday at the Mullanpur Stadium in New Chandigarh. Their failure to secure a top-two finish was attributed to a poor net run rate, despite winning crucial matches in the latter half of the season.

The first Qualifier, set to take place in Dharamsala on Tuesday, will see Royal Challengers Bengaluru face Gujarat Titans for a direct entry into the final. Hyderabad, meanwhile, must navigate the eliminators with precision and intensity if they are to lift the trophy this year.

Why SRH Stand Out

Sunrisers’ reputation as a team with explosive batting at the top has been well-earned in IPL 2026. With a balanced mix of experienced campaigners and dynamic young talent, their ability to post big totals — especially when their top order fires — makes them a dangerous proposition for any side.

Patel’s endorsement adds to the growing consensus that Hyderabad are among the most complete units in the tournament. Their bowling attack, led by Cummins and supported by emerging Indian talent, has also shown remarkable adaptability across different pitch conditions.

As the business end of IPL 2026 unfolds, all eyes will be on whether Axar Patel’s prediction comes true — and whether Sunrisers Hyderabad can finally claim the title they’ve long been capable of winning.