Pat Cummins is set to stay on the Helm of Sunrisers Hyderabad as the IPL heads into its 2026 season. The Australian fast‑bowling star was announced as captain again in a quick post on the team’s official X page, giving fans a clear signal that his leadership will continue into the third straight year.
Cummins is still nursing a back injury that will sideline him for the first Ashes Test in Perth, but he is expected to return in time for the second match in Brisbane on December 4. While he’s out, former Australian captain Steven Smith will guide the national side against England in the opening Ashes fixture on November 21.
The franchise’s confidence in Cummins is evident, especially after his big‑money move to Hyderabad. The 31‑year‑old was bought for roughly ₹20.5 crore—a big deal at the IPL auction—when the team was seeking a strong leader following Australia’s recent successes in the World Test Championship and the 2023 ODI World Cup.
Previously the star of Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals, Cummins now builds on the core that helped Sunrisers surge to the 2024 runner‑up spot. Alongside him, the aggressive opening duo of Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head will continue to provide the firepower fans love.
This season’s squad changes show a clear attempt to fine‑tune the bowling lineup. Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami has been traded to the Lucknow Super Giants, and the likes of Adam Zampa and Rahul Chahar have been released. The moves are part of a broader strategy to strengthen the team after a disappointing 2025 campaign, when Sunrisers finished sixth and missed the playoffs.
With Cummins back at the front, Sunrisers Hyderabad look ready to build on their recent momentum and target a return to the top of the IPL standings in 2026.
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