Before the start of IPL 2026, expectations were high for Pat Cummins, who had been a pivotal player for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Having led the team to the finals in IPL 2024, where they narrowly lost to Kolkata Knight Riders, Cummins was anticipated to be a key figure in the upcoming season. However, his recent lumbar stress back injury has cast a shadow over these expectations.
As of now, Cummins is recovering from this injury and missed the 2026 T20 World Cup, which was a significant setback for both him and his team. In his absence, Ishan Kishan has stepped up as the stand-in captain for SRH, bringing his experience to the forefront as the team navigates the early stages of the tournament.
Currently, Cummins has begun bowling in the nets, but he has not yet received clearance from Cricket Australia to compete in the IPL. Daniel Vettori, a former cricketer and current coach, suggested that Cummins could be available in the next 10-12 days, providing a glimmer of hope for SRH fans.
In IPL 2025, Cummins showcased his skills by taking 16 wickets in 14 games, with an impressive average of 28.13 and an economy rate of 9.06. His absence is felt deeply, as he was expected to replicate or even improve upon these numbers in the 2026 season.
The tournament opener saw Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) win the toss and opt to field first against SRH, a decision that could have been influenced by the absence of Cummins. His leadership and bowling prowess would have undoubtedly made a difference in the match strategy.
As the tournament progresses, Cummins is expected to play in the second half once he regains fitness. This timeline is crucial for SRH, as they aim to build momentum and secure a strong position in the league.
Vettori emphasized Cummins’ exceptional fitness during rehabilitation, stating, “His fitness has been exceptional. He’s been out of the game for an extended period of time, so he’s had time to work on fitness.” This highlights the importance of his recovery process and the potential impact on his performance upon return.
Overall, while the initial outlook for IPL 2026 was promising with Cummins at the helm, the current situation presents challenges. The team must adapt to his absence while remaining hopeful for his swift return.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact timeline of Cummins’ return, but the cricketing community watches closely as updates unfold.
