Fans of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are eager to know when exactly will the star player Pat Cummins play his first game of the ongoing IPL 2026. Notably, some positive news did greet fans few days back when Cummins joined the SRH camp and it was expected they he may soon be seen in action. Now, ahead of the upcoming clash against Rajasthan Royals (RR) today, the Aussie icon has given crucial update regarding when he will play his first game of this season.
The road to recovery for Pat Cummins
Cummins’ absence from the cricket field has been one of the biggest talking points of the 2026 season. After suffering a severe lumbar bone stress injury (back injury) last year, the pacer underwent an extensive rehabilitation program. The injury kept him out of the first seven games of the current IPL campaign, leaving a significant void in both the SRH bowling attack and the leadership group.
Cummins breaks the silence on his possible return
The speculation regarding his return was finally put to rest by the man himself. On Friday, Cummins took to Instagram to share his excitement with the fans. Posting a photo from the training session, he noted that he was stinging to get back into it.
“Been a long time coming, stinging to get back into it tomorrow,” wrote Cummins on Instagram.
Reports from the SRH camp suggest that Cummins has cleared all necessary fitness benchmarks and has been bowling at full tilt in the nets over the past few days. His return isn’t just about his world-class bowling; it’s about the tactical edge and “never-say-die” attitude he brings to the field as captain.
The timing of Cummins’ return couldn’t be better. SRH are currently in a mid-table scrap and facing a Rajasthan Royals side that has been formidable on their home turf. Cummins’ ability to pick up wickets in the Powerplay and his calmness during the death overs will be crucial in neutralizing RR’s explosive batting lineup.
The possible return of Cummins also means that Ishan Kishan, who has been leading the side admirably in Cummins’ absence, will hand back the captaincy reins and focus on his roles as an opening batter and wicketkeeper.
Also WATCH: IPL 2026 : Suyash Sharma gives a teasing send off to Shubman Gill during RCB vs GT clash
