Australian Test and ODI captain Pat Cummins has indicated he is targeting a return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season during its back half and finals, provided his recovery from a lumbar stress injury progresses without further complications. The Sunrisers Hyderabad skipper, who has been sidelined for much of the past year, confirmed he would miss the initial phase of the tournament, with Ishan Kishan set to lead the franchise in his absence. Lalit Modi Calls Sanjiv Goenka ‘Clown’ After LSG Owner Credits Conception of IPL to Jay Shah.

Cummins, who arrived in India recently, was observed undertaking light training sessions at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Wednesday, including casual bowling in the nets. This marks a significant step in his rehabilitation from the back injury that also ruled him out of the T20 World Cup. "I'm still recovering from a back injury, but it's good. I'm back bowling in the nets," Cummins stated in a recent interview with Business of Sport.  "The IPL is starting soon. I won't make the start of that, but it shouldn't be too long before I'm back out there playing."

Pat Cummins Speaks on IPL 2026 Return

Recovery Progress and Timeline

The right-arm pacer elaborated on his recovery regimen, noting he is currently bowling "basically every third day" as part of a carefully planned rehabilitation programme. "We've mapped out a plan to get me right by [the] middle of the tournament, so hopefully, if nothing goes wrong, [I'll] play the back half plus the finals," Cummins added, outlining his optimistic but cautious outlook. His absence from competitive cricket has been notable, having featured in only one match, the third Ashes Test, since first experiencing back issues in July of last year. A "minor setback" during his initial recovery prevented his participation in the T20 World Cup. SRH Confirm Ishan Kishan As Stand-In Captain Ahead of IPL 2026 While Pat Cummins Recovers From Injury; Abhishek Sharma Announced As Vice-Captain.

Leadership Transition for Sunrisers Hyderabad

In Cummins' absence, wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has been appointed as the interim captain for Sunrisers Hyderabad. Kishan brings recent leadership experience, having guided Jharkhand to the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title in December 2025.

Sunrisers Hyderabad, who last lifted the IPL trophy in 2016, are scheduled to commence their 2026 campaign against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on March 28. The franchise will be keen for Cummins' eventual return to bolster their bowling attack and leadership on the field as they navigate the demanding tournament schedule.

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