Sunrisers Hyderabad’s campaign has taken another hit, with the franchise confirming that fast bowler David Payne will miss the rest of the IPL due to an ankle injury. The setback comes at a tough time for the team, especially with their regular captain Pat Cummins also yet to feature in a single match this season.
With Cummins unavailable, Ishan Kishan has been drafted in to help steer things on the field. SRH have also been dealing with further disruption in their bowling unit: English seamer Brydon Carse was ruled out a couple of days earlier after suffering a hand injury while training in the nets. Dilshan Madushanka has been named as Carse’s replacement, but the series of absences underlines how quickly momentum can wobble for a franchise mid-season.
Payne’s withdrawal is not even his first detour this IPL. He was brought in as a replacement for Australian pacer Jack Edwards, who had to step away because of a foot injury.
Payne’s IPL stint so far for SRH
- Payne played the opening two matches for Sunrisers Hyderabad, beginning against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the defending champions.
- Against RCB, he conceded 35 runs in his three overs but made early strikes by dismissing Rajat Patidar and Jitesh Sharma off consecutive deliveries.
- Despite those wickets, SRH still lost the match.
- In the game versus Kolkata Knight Riders, Payne struggled for impact, giving away 35 runs in two overs without taking a wicket.
- However, SRH managed to win that contest despite his figures.
It remains to be seen whether the franchise will announce another replacement for Payne as the tournament progresses.
Cummins hopeful of a quick return
Amid the injury concerns, there is at least some positive news surrounding Cummins. Cricket Australia has indicated that he has been given permission to return to bowling after back scans earlier this week showed encouraging results.
The update stated that Cummins has been cleared to resume bowling without restrictions following fresh scans on his back in Sydney, which sets the stage for his return in the IPL.
It also noted that the latest scans on Wednesday confirmed the back stress problem that had restricted him to just one professional appearance since the previous August has now been resolved.
Cummins is expected to travel back to India on Friday to join up with his Australia teammate Travis Head at SRH for the rest of this year’s tournament.
At this stage, he is likely to take the field against Rajasthan Royals on April 25. SRH’s next fixture is against Chennai Super Kings on Saturday, followed by a match against Delhi Capitals on Tuesday.
