Sunrisers Hyderabad’s IPL 2026 campaign has suffered another setback, with overseas pacer David Payne ruled out of the remainder of the season due to an ankle injury. The development comes at a time when the franchise was just beginning to regain some balance, especially with encouraging updates around Pat Cummins’ fitness.

Payne, who was drafted in as a replacement for Australian all-rounder Jack Edwards, featured in two matches for SRH this season. While he managed to pick up two wickets, his high economy rate of 14 raised concerns about his overall impact. He played in SRH’s opening defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru and their win against Kolkata Knight Riders, but failed to fully settle into his role within the bowling unit.

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Confirming the news, SRH released an official statement: “David Payne has been ruled out of TATA IPL 2026 after sustaining an ankle injury. Wishing him a speedy recovery.” The franchise is now expected to explore replacement options as they look to strengthen their pace attack for the remainder of the tournament.

OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

David Payne has been ruled out of TATA IPL 2026 after sustaining an ankle injury.

Wishing him a speedy recovery 🧡 pic.twitter.com/aKjJ9lvl6R

— SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) April 16, 2026

In contrast, there is positive news regarding skipper Pat Cummins, who had earlier been sidelined with a persistent back issue. Reports suggest that the Australian captain has recovered well and is set to undergo a final fitness test. Pending clearance and a No Objection Certificate from Cricket Australia, Cummins is likely to rejoin the squad ahead of SRH’s upcoming fixture against Chennai Super Kings.

SRH have already dealt with multiple injury concerns this season. England pacer Brydon Carse was ruled out earlier with a hand injury, prompting the inclusion of Sri Lanka’s Dilshan Madushanka as his replacement.

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Despite these disruptions, SRH have unearthed promising young talents in Praful Hinge and Sakib Hussain. Both impressed in their recent outing and could play a crucial role as the team looks to maintain momentum in a challenging campaign.