JuicyTalk
As the buzz around IPL 2026 gathers pace, all eyes are on Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and their preparations for the new season. However, the franchise will begin their campaign without Pat Cummins, who is still recovering from a back injury. The Australian skipper’s absence in the initial phase is a setback, but the team remains optimistic about his return during the business end of the tournament.
Cummins, one of the most influential fast bowlers in world cricket, has been working his way back to full fitness after a challenging few months. Despite missing out on key international assignments, including a limited role during the Ashes and the T20 World Cup, the SRH captain has now resumed bowling and is steadily progressing toward match readiness.
Pat Cummins opens up on his availability for SRH in IPL 2026
Providing a clear update on his recovery, Cummins recently confirmed that he will not be available at the start of IPL 2026 but is aiming to return midway through the tournament. Speaking about his rehabilitation, the Australian captain revealed that he has already resumed bowling in the nets and is following a structured plan to regain full fitness.
“I’m still recovering from a back injury, but it’s good. I’m back bowling in the nets. The IPL is starting soon, I won’t make the start of that. But it shouldn’t be too long before I’m back out there playing,” Cummins said recently on the Business of Sport podcast
Cummins explained that his workload is being carefully managed, with bowling sessions scheduled every few days. The focus, he said, is to ensure that he peaks physically during the latter stages of the competition. If his recovery continues without setbacks, he expects to be available for the second half of the league stage and potentially the playoffs.
“I’m back bowling. I’m bowling basically every third day at the moment. We’ve mapped out a plan to get me right by the middle of the tournament. So hopefully, if nothing goes wrong, I’ll play the back half plus the finals,” added Cummins.
Despite his temporary absence, Cummins has already joined the squad in Bengaluru ahead of their opening clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. In his absence, star batter Ishan Kishan will take over the captaincy duties. Cummins expressed confidence in Kishan’s leadership, highlighting his recent success at the domestic level and his understanding of local conditions and players.
The Australian also acknowledged the importance of local knowledge within the squad, especially during the early stages of the tournament. He noted that experienced Indian players help bridge communication gaps and provide valuable insights, particularly when dealing with younger or less familiar teammates.
“Ishan’s had a really successful captaincy stint with his local side in the last year or so. Those guys, you’re leaning on anyway. We’ve got quite an experienced bowling group of local guys, so a few of the younger guys that come through that I don’t know as well,” Cummins added further.
Also READ: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) announces replacement of Harshit Rana for IPL 2026
Why Cummins remains vital to SRH’s IPL ambitions
Cummins’ eventual return could prove to be a turning point for Sunrisers Hyderabad. Beyond his ability with the ball, his leadership and tactical awareness make him a crucial figure in the team’s setup. Known for his calm demeanor under pressure, Cummins brings balance to the side, especially in high-stakes matches.
His presence strengthens the bowling attack, offering both pace and control, while also adding depth to the lower-order batting. For a team aiming to make a deep run in IPL 2026, having their captain back during the crucial phase could significantly enhance their chances.
In a further boost for the squad, Sri Lankan pacer Ehsan Malinga has joined the team after receiving clearance from his national board. His inclusion adds fresh energy to the bowling unit as SRH look to navigate the early part of the season without their captain.
