Cricket News, IPL 2026, Pat Cummins, Cricket Updates
Pat Cummins has set his sights on returning to action in the latter stages of IPL 2026 as he continues his recovery from a lumbar stress injury that ruled him out of the recent T20 World Cup.
The Sunrisers Hyderabad captain has had a limited run of competitive cricket over the past year, featuring in just one match—the third Ashes Test in December—since first experiencing back issues in July. Although he initially aimed to recover in time for the T20 World Cup, a minor setback forced him to delay his comeback.
Cummins has now arrived in India and was seen doing light fitness drills during warm-ups at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Wednesday. He also bowled casually in the nets, marking a positive step in his rehabilitation.
Speaking on the Business of Sport podcast, Cummins outlined a clear roadmap for his return. “I’m still recovering from a back injury, but it’s going well. I’m back bowling in the nets,” he said. “I won’t be available at the start of the IPL, but it shouldn’t be too long before I’m playing again.”
He added that he is currently bowling every third day as part of a structured recovery plan. “We’ve mapped out a plan to get me right by the middle of the tournament, so hopefully, if everything goes well, I’ll be able to play the back half plus the finals.”
In Cummins’ absence, wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan will lead Sunrisers Hyderabad in the early part of the season. Cummins expressed confidence in Kishan’s leadership, citing his recent success with Jharkhand, whom he guided to the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title.
“Ishan’s had a really successful captaincy stint with his local side,” Cummins noted, adding that he relies on experienced Indian teammates to bridge communication gaps within the squad. “Most of the guys speak great English, but there can be language barriers with some younger or local players, so I lean on the local guys who know them well.”
Sunrisers Hyderabad, who last lifted the IPL trophy in 2016, will begin their campaign against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Saturday, hoping to make a strong start despite missing their regular captain.
