The Indian Premier League (IPL) has produced several legendary rivalries, but few matchups reflect the evolution of modern T20 cricket as vividly as the Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Delhi Capitals timeline. This rivalry is not built on animosity or legacy alone, but on contrasting cricketing philosophies—SRH’s traditional reliance on disciplined bowling and structured batting against DC’s fearless aggression and youth-driven approach.
Since their first meeting in 2013, matches between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Delhi Capitals (DC) have delivered last-over thrillers, emotional reunions, record-breaking performances, and tactical masterclasses. Over time, this fixture has transformed from a predictable contest into one of the most evenly balanced and entertaining rivalries in the IPL.
This detailed article explores the complete SRH vs DC timeline, including match-by-match results, season-wise narratives, key player performances, records, fan moments, and the rivalry’s future outlook, making it a definitive guide for IPL fans.
Table of Contents
Origins of the Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Delhi Capitals Rivalry
The rivalry officially began in IPL 2013, a historic season for Sunrisers Hyderabad, who replaced Deccan Chargers as the Hyderabad-based franchise. Delhi, competing as Delhi Daredevils, were already part of the IPL since its inception in 2008 but were struggling with inconsistency.
From the very first encounter, the fixture showed promise—competitive totals, standout individual performances, and tactical battles that hinted at a rivalry in the making.
Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Delhi Capitals Match Timeline (2013–2025)
Complete SRH vs DC Match Timeline Table
| Year | Date | Venue | Winner | Key Performers | Match Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | Apr 28 | Delhi | Delhi Daredevils | Sehwag 64, Morkel 3/20 | DD won by 8 runs |
| 2014 | May 14 | Hyderabad | SRH | Warner 67, Bhuvneshwar 3/23 | SRH won by 5 runs |
| 2015 | Apr 23 | Delhi | SRH | Dhawan 63, Steyn 3/23 | SRH won by 18 runs |
| 2016 | May 21 | Mumbai | SRH | Warner 69, Yuvraj 39* | SRH won by 5 wickets |
| 2017 | Apr 29 | Hyderabad | Delhi Daredevils | Samson 51, Boult 3/27 | DD won by 3 wickets |
| 2018 | Apr 20 | Delhi | SRH | Williamson 84*, Rashid 2/19 | SRH won by 6 wickets |
| 2019 | Apr 21 | Hyderabad | Delhi Capitals | Shaw 56, Rabada 3/20 | DC won by 4 wickets |
| 2020 | Oct 20 | Dubai | Delhi Capitals | Stoinis, Hetmyer | DC won (DLS) |
| 2021 | Apr 21 | Chennai | SRH | Pandey 61, Rashid 3/26 | SRH won by 7 runs |
| 2022 | Apr 20 | Mumbai | DC | Warner 52, Kuldeep 4/14 | DC won by 4 wickets |
| 2023 | May 13 | Delhi | SRH | Klaasen 67*, Bhuvneshwar | SRH won by 6 runs |
| 2024 | Apr 20 | Hyderabad | DC | Fraser-McGurk 85, Kuldeep | DC won by 26 runs |
| 2025 | Apr 18 | Delhi | TBD | TBD | TBD |
Note: Delhi Daredevils were rebranded as Delhi Capitals in 2019.
Season-by-Season Breakdown of the SRH vs DC Timeline
2013: The Rivalry Is Born in Delhi
The first chapter of the Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Delhi Capitals timeline unfolded at Feroz Shah Kotla in 2013. It was SRH’s debut season, and expectations were cautiously optimistic.
Virender Sehwag rolled back the years with a commanding 64, setting up Delhi’s total of 172/7. Morne Morkel’s hostile spell (3/20) proved decisive, using bounce and pace to dismantle SRH’s middle order. Despite resistance from Cameron White, SRH fell short by 8 runs.
This match set the foundation for a rivalry that would grow steadily over the next decade.
2014: David Warner Announces SRH’s Arrival
In 2014, SRH hosted Delhi in Hyderabad, and the home side showcased their emerging identity. David Warner’s authoritative 67 anchored the innings, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s swing bowling (3/23) restricted Delhi to 159/8.
The narrow 5-run victory highlighted SRH’s ability to defend modest totals, a hallmark of their early success. Warner’s dominance against Delhi began here, becoming a recurring theme in the SRH vs DC head-to-head.
2015: Shikhar Dhawan Shines Against His Former Franchise
Facing his old team in Delhi, Shikhar Dhawan delivered a classy 63, guiding SRH to 161/6. Dale Steyn then produced a vintage fast-bowling display, claiming 3/23 and rattling Delhi’s top order.
Delhi were bowled out for 143, handing SRH an emphatic 18-run victory. This match reinforced SRH’s tactical superiority and extended their dominance in the rivalry.
2016: Yuvraj Singh’s 10-Ball Storm
The 2016 clash in Mumbai remains one of the most iconic games in the IPL match timeline SRH vs DC.
Chasing 191, SRH were under pressure until Yuvraj Singh produced a stunning 39 off just 10 balls*, smashing four consecutive sixes. Warner’s 69 laid the platform, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar controlled the middle overs.
This match epitomized SRH’s ability to combine structure with explosive finishing and remains a fan favorite.
2017: Delhi Breaks the Streak
After several defeats, Delhi finally tasted success in 2017. Sanju Samson’s composed 51 and Trent Boult’s incisive 3/27 powered Delhi to 173/6.
SRH’s chase fell short at 170/7, giving Delhi a rare away win in Hyderabad. This victory hinted at Delhi’s rebuilding process and restored balance to the rivalry.
2018: Kane Williamson’s Calm Brilliance
In Delhi, Kane Williamson played one of the finest innings of the rivalry, scoring an unbeaten 84 while chasing 162. His innings was a masterclass in timing, placement, and game awareness.
Rashid Khan’s 2/19 ensured Delhi never gained momentum. This match symbolized SRH’s peak—disciplined, composed, and ruthlessly efficient.
2019: Delhi Capitals Usher in a New Era
The rebranding from Delhi Daredevils to Delhi Capitals proved transformative. In 2019, DC defeated SRH in Hyderabad, powered by Prithvi Shaw’s 56 and Kagiso Rabada’s 3/20.
This win marked a shift in the Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Delhi Capitals timeline, as DC emerged as a genuine playoff contender with a clear identity.
2020: DLS Drama in Dubai
Played in the UAE under extraordinary circumstances, the 2020 clash was decided by the Duckworth–Lewis–Stern method. DC posted 159/4, but rain altered SRH’s chase drastically.
Marcus Stoinis and Shimron Hetmyer starred as DC won by 17 runs (DLS). The result sparked debate but added another dramatic chapter to the rivalry.
2021: SRH’s Last Stand
In Chennai, Manish Pandey’s 61 and Rashid Khan’s 3/26 helped SRH defend 195. Despite a strong start, DC’s chase faltered against spin.
This match showcased SRH’s adaptability in neutral venues and marked one of their last strong performances before a period of transition.
2022: Warner Returns, Kuldeep Dominates
David Warner’s return to face SRH was emotionally charged. His 52 received applause from Hyderabad fans, but Kuldeep Yadav stole the show with 4/14, dismantling SRH’s batting.
DC chased down 188, signaling their growing dominance in the modern phase of the rivalry.
2023: Klaasen’s Firepower in Delhi
Heinrich Klaasen’s blistering 67* propelled SRH to 197/6. DC fought valiantly but finished at 191/7.
This high-scoring thriller highlighted SRH’s batting reinvention and Klaasen’s emergence as one of the IPL’s most destructive finishers.
2024: Fraser-McGurk Rewrites the Record Books
The 2024 clash in Hyderabad was historic. Jake Fraser-McGurk smashed 85 off 36 balls, powering DC to 213/4, the highest total in SRH vs DC history.
Kuldeep Yadav’s control ensured DC won comfortably by 26 runs, marking a new era of fearless DC cricket.
Head-to-Head Overview (Up to 2024)
- Total Matches: 13
- SRH Wins: 7
- DC Wins: 6
- SRH Win Percentage: 53.85%
- Highest Team Total: DC – 213/4 (2024)
- Best Bowling Figures: Kuldeep Yadav – 4/14 (2022)
Key Player Records in SRH vs DC Matches
Top Batters
- David Warner – 458 runs
- Kane Williamson – 3 fifties
- Rishabh Pant – Match-defining knocks
Top Bowlers
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar – 14 wickets
- Kuldeep Yadav – 9 wickets
- Rashid Khan – Economy 6.2
Why SRH vs DC Is a Unique IPL Rivalry
- Tactical contrast: structure vs aggression
- Emotional subplots (Warner, Dhawan)
- Frequent close finishes
- Rising young stars redefining outcomes
Conclusion
The Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Delhi Capitals timeline mirrors the IPL’s evolution—from cautious T20 strategies to fearless, high-scoring cricket. What began as a one-sided contest has grown into a finely balanced rivalry filled with drama, emotion, and innovation.
With both franchises continuing to invest in youth and tactical depth, the 2025 clash promises another unforgettable chapter. As long as the IPL thrives, SRH vs DC will remain one of its most compelling narratives.
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