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IPL 2026 Hits and Flops: The Performers, Strugglers from Week 4 of Indian Premier League
The fourth week of IPL 2026 will be remembered as one of the most batting-dominant windows in recent IPL history.
Seven encounters produced a staggering number of high totals, successful high-pressure chases, and dramatic collapses, outcomes that go far beyond individual brilliance. This was not merely a collection of results; it was a microcosm of the league’s current strategic shift: batting firepower has become the primary currency, while bowling units are being forced to adapt to increasingly flat, high-scoring surfaces and aggressive power-play mindsets.
IPL 2026 Week 4 Matches Snapshot
Across the seven games, batting-first sides enjoyed mixed success, but the recurring theme was the ability of strong middle orders to convert solid starts into match-winning totals.
Apr 20: MI 199/5 beat GT 100 by 99 runs (Ahmedabad)
Apr 21: SRH 242/2 beat DC 195/9 by 47 runs (Hyderabad)
Apr 22: RR 159/6 beat LSG 119 by 40 runs (Lucknow)
Apr 23: CSK 207/6 beat MI 104 by 103 runs (Mumbai)
Apr 24: RCB 206/5 beat GT 205/3 by 5 wickets (Bengaluru)
Apr 25 (day): PBKS 265/4 beat DC 264/2 by 6 wickets (Delhi)
Apr 25 (night): SRH 229/5 beat RR 228/6 by 5 wickets (Jaipur)
IPL 2026 Week 4: The Hits
1. Tilak Varma (Mumbai Indians) — The Middle-Order Catalyst
In a must-win scenario on April 20, Tilak’s unbeaten 101 off 45 balls (strike rate ~224) transformed a competitive total into a match-winning 199/5. This was not just a century; it was a strategic masterclass in middle-order acceleration that dismantled opposition bowling plans and provided the perfect platform for a crushing 99-run victory.
2. Abhishek Sharma (Sunrisers Hyderabad) — The Anchor Turned Destroyer
On April 21, Abhishek’s explosive yet measured unbeaten 135 off 68 balls powered SRH to 242/2 and a commanding 47-run win. Two days later on April 25, his contribution again proved decisive in a successful chase against Rajasthan Royals. He also holds the Orange Cap for now.
Two Notable Flops: Costly Spells That Exposed Structural Weaknesses
1. Rashid Khan (Gujarat Titans)
In the high-stakes April 24 clash, Rashid’s 2/49 in four overs (economy 12.25) on a traditionally spin-friendly Bengaluru surface failed to stem RCB’s chase of 206. Despite GT posting a competitive 205/3, the chase was completed with seven balls to spare. Rashid hasn't been at his best this season and will have to produce better outing in upcoming matches.
2. Praful Hinge (Sunrisers Hyderabad)
Despite a top start, Praful Hinge has found things difficult in the last couple of matches. The SRH pacer has conceded 60 and 49 runs in the last two matches with two wickets to his name.
Team of the Week vs. Team in Crisis
Hit Team: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
SRH won both their matches in the window — a clinical 47-run victory on April 21 and a five-wicket chase on April 25 — showcasing depth in both batting and bowling. Explosive contributions from multiple batters and disciplined death bowling painted a picture of a team peaking at the right moment.
SRH’s success stems from a balanced squad construction that has avoided the “star-dependency” trap plaguing several franchises. Their ability to post and chase 220+ totals reflects superior preparation on high-scoring venues and smart overseas recruitment.
Flop Team: Gujarat Titans (GT)
GT suffered two heavy defeats bowled out for 100 on April 20 and narrowly losing a 205/3 total on April 24. The batting collapses and inability to defend competitive scores revealed cracks in both departments.
GT entered the week with realistic playoff hopes but exited it with mounting pressure. The results exposed a lack of adaptability — particularly in bowling on flat tracks — and over-reliance on a few key performers.
Story first published: Sunday, April 26, 2026, 15:52 [IST]
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