Pat Cummins, the captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad, has been managing a back issue since last year, which has significantly impacted his playing time. Having participated in only one competitive match since July, Cummins is now focused on his recovery and plans to return to competitive cricket.
As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season approaches, Cummins has confirmed that he will miss the tournament’s start. “I’m still recovering from a back injury, but it’s good. I’m back bowling in the nets,” he stated, expressing optimism about his progress.
Despite the setback, Cummins is hopeful about returning to the field, aiming to participate in the second half of IPL 2026 if his recovery goes as planned. “We’ve mapped out a plan to get me right by (the) middle of the tournament, so hopefully, if nothing goes wrong, (I will) play the back half plus the finals,” he added.
In Cummins’ absence, Ishan Kishan has been appointed as the interim captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad. Kishan’s recent success in captaincy with his local side has positioned him well to lead the team during this critical period.
The IPL 2026 season kicks off on Saturday, and Sunrisers Hyderabad will be looking to improve upon their last championship victory in 2016. With Cummins sidelined, the team faces the challenge of maintaining their competitive edge without their leader.
Additionally, Cummins has faced a minor setback that prevented him from participating in the T20 World Cup, further complicating his return to form. Observers are keenly watching his recovery progress, particularly as the Bangladesh series runs from August 13 to 26.
As Cummins continues to bowl in the nets every third day, fans and analysts alike are hopeful for his swift return to the game. His leadership and skills are crucial for Sunrisers Hyderabad as they navigate the upcoming challenges without him.
Overall, while the initial stages of IPL 2026 will proceed without Cummins, his commitment to recovery and plans for a mid-tournament return reflect his determination to contribute to his team’s success.
