In a significant development for the upcoming IPL 2026 season, David Payne has been signed by Sunrisers Hyderabad as a replacement for Jack Edwards. The announcement was made on March 28, 2026, coinciding with the opening match of the tournament against Royal Challengers Bangalore.
Payne, a left-arm pacer, is set to join the team for a fee of Rs 1.5 crore. He takes the place of Edwards, who was initially signed for Rs 3 crore but was ruled out due to injury. This move comes as a strategic adjustment for SRH as they prepare for the season.
David Payne’s credentials include being Gloucestershire’s highest white-ball wicket-taker with 323 wickets. He has made one ODI appearance for England, where he took one wicket for 38 runs against the Netherlands in June 2022. His T20 record is impressive, with 304 wickets taken in 233 matches, averaging 21.16.
In the recent 2025/26 Big Bash League, Payne showcased his skills by taking three wickets in the final and was named player of the match. His performance included five four-wicket hauls and one five-for in T20 cricket, demonstrating his capability in high-pressure situations.
Payne’s economy rate in T20 matches stands at 8.03, making him a valuable asset for any team. He has consistently been among the wickets in global T20 leagues, including the ILT20 and BBL, further solidifying his reputation as a top-tier bowler.
The IPL 2026 season is set to run from March 28 to May 31, with SRH opening the tournament against RCB, marking the 28th match played between the two teams. This match will be crucial for both teams as they look to establish momentum early in the season.
Reactions to Payne’s signing have been positive, with fans and analysts noting his potential to make an immediate impact. His experience and recent form suggest he could be a key player for SRH in their campaign.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full implications of this signing on SRH’s strategy moving forward, but the team appears to be bolstering its bowling attack ahead of the season.
