Pat Cummins cleared for IPL 2026 return, set to rejoin SRH squad ahead of CSK clash

Pat Cummins has been declared fully fit and is set to rejoin Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL 2026. The Australian skipper is expected to return to action later this month after recovering from injury.

Post Published By: Ayushi Bisht

Updated : 16 April 2026, 4:28 PM IST

Pat Cummins set to play in IPL 2026

Hyderabad: Sunrisers Hyderabad have received a major boost ahead of the ongoing IPL 2026 season, with skipper Pat Cummins regaining full fitness and set to rejoin the squad.

Cummins Cleared After Fitness Test

Cummins has been cleared to resume competitive cricket following a successful fitness assessment by Cricket Australia. Recent scans confirmed that the Australian captain can return to action without restrictions.

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The fast bowler had been sidelined for several months due to a back injury and has played only one professional match since August 2025.

Return Timeline and Matches to Miss

While Cummins is expected to join the team ahead of their upcoming fixture against Chennai Super Kings, he is unlikely to feature in that game. He is also set to miss the April 21 clash against Delhi Capitals.

The Australian pacer is targeting a return for the April 25 match against Rajasthan Royals at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur.

Leadership Role to Resume

Cummins is expected to take over captaincy duties upon his return. In his absence, the team was being led by Ishan Kishan, who stepped in as interim captain during the early part of the season.

Team management is likely to monitor Cummins’ workload carefully, considering a packed international schedule for Australia following the IPL.

Focus on Multi-Format Cricket

Despite his injury layoff, Cummins has expressed his desire to continue playing across all three formats for Australia. He remains committed to Test cricket while balancing the demands of limited-overs formats.

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With Australia expected to play a heavy schedule, including multiple Test matches over the next year, managing his fitness will be crucial.

Mumbai Indians Announce Replacement

In a separate development, Mumbai Indians have signed Krish Bhagat as a replacement for the injured Atharva Ankolekar for the remainder of the season.

Bhagat, a right-arm pacer who can contribute with the bat, has prior domestic experience and was already part of the team setup as a net bowler.