England fast bowler Jofra Archer returned the most expensive bowling figures in the Indian Premier League on Sunday as Rajasthan Royals were thoroughly overwhelmed by Sunrisers Hyderabad.
Archer was smashed for 76 runs in his four overs, marking a significant personal and team setback.
Hyderabad had been invited to bat first and posted a daunting total of 286-6, falling just one run short of their all-time high of 287, which still stands as the highest total in the T20 tournament. The massive score was built on a destructive performance from their batsmen, who amassed a remarkable 34 fours and 12 sixes during the innings.
Archer’s performance eclipsed that of Gujarat Titans’ seam bowler Mohit Sharma, who had previously set a record with 73 runs conceded in a match last year. The 76 runs Archer conceded surpassed Sharma’s figures, sealing his place in IPL history for the wrong reasons.
Archer’s troubles began early in the match, as he gave away 23 runs in his opening over. Travis Head, who faced Archer during that period, capitalised on the opportunity, smashing four fours and a six in the over. Head went on to score 67 runs from just 31 balls, providing a strong foundation for the following batsmen.
Ishan Kishan then took control, finishing on an unbeaten 106 off 47 balls, including 11 fours and six sixes. The Sunrisers’ batsmen took full advantage of the pitch, putting up a formidable total that left Rajasthan with little chance of a successful chase.
In the previous IPL season, Hyderabad, led by Pat Cummins, had posted the highest-ever total of 287-3 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2024, setting an unmatched record.
