Pat Cummins remains a central figure for Sunrisers Hyderabad heading into the Indian Premier League 2026 season, but the franchise will have to navigate the early phase without their skipper. The Australian Test and ODI captain, who was bought for a massive ₹20.50 crore in the 2024 auction and later retained for ₹18 crore, is still recovering from a back injury that has kept him out of action this year.
His absence is a significant setback, especially given that he led SRH to the final in 2024 and played in all 14 matches last season. With Pat Cummins unavailable for the opening fixtures, Ishan Kishan is set to take over the captaincy duties for the Hyderabad-based side.
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The wicketkeeper-batter will lead SRH in the opening clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on March 28, marking a crucial test of leadership early in the campaign. Despite missing the start, Cummins has offered a reassuring update on his fitness. Speaking recently, he confirmed that his recovery is on track and that he has resumed bowling in the nets.
🚨 BIG UPDATE 🚨
Pat Cummins on IPL 2026 return 🇦🇺🔥
“If nothing goes wrong, I’ll play the back half plus the finals.”
SRH boost incoming just when it matters most 💪
Playoffs phase gonna get 🔥 with Cummins back!#IPL2026 #PatCummins #SRH pic.twitter.com/A9VtuRWrO8— SinghOnPoint (@Saurabh7085) March 26, 2026
The experienced pacer revealed that he is currently bowling every third day as part of a structured rehabilitation plan, with the aim of returning by the middle phase of IPL 2026. If all goes according to schedule, Cummins is targeting a comeback for the second half of the tournament, including the playoffs.
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From a team balance perspective, his absence leaves a noticeable gap in SRH’s bowling attack. The franchise will rely on relatively inexperienced overseas options like Brydon Carse, Eshan Malinga, and David Payne. Notably, Carse and Payne are set to make their IPL debuts this season after joining as replacements for Jack Edwards. Until Cummins returns, SRH’s bowling depth will be under serious scrutiny in IPL 2026.
