Pat Cummins Returns Home Mid-IPL Due Injury

Australian all-rounder Pat Cummins has returned home from the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) midway through the tournament after failing to feature for Sunrisers Hyderabad due to a persistent back injury. The 27-year-old fast bowler and captain has yet to make his IPL debut this season, and his early exit from India was prompted by the need for a detailed medical assessment of his condition.

According to reports from ESPNcricinfo, Cummins travelled to Australia to undergo a full back scan under the supervision of Cricket Australia (CA) medical staff. If the scan reveals no complications, he is expected to rejoin the Hyderabad squad on 17 April. The decision to conduct the scan had been pre-planned in coordination with both the IPL franchise and the national cricket board.

Cummins last travelled from India following Sunrisers’ victory over Kolkata Knight Riders on 2 April, a match in which he did not feature. Before the start of the IPL, the Australian pacer had indicated that he would not be available for the initial fixtures but aimed to return in the latter stages, including the playoffs, to bolster his side’s campaign. He had been actively involved in team practice sessions during the opening match against Royal Challengers Bangalore on 28 March, attempting to build match fitness before the tournament.

In Cummins’ absence, Ishan Kishan has been leading Sunrisers Hyderabad. Kishan will continue to captain the side until the Australian all-rounder is cleared to play. The team has relied heavily on foreign pacers Lasith Malinga and David Payne to spearhead their bowling attack during this period.

Cummins’ injury woes are not new. He first suffered from a back problem in July last year, which has limited his participation in competitive cricket. His only recent appearance came in the third Ashes Test in December, and although he was in line to play in the T20 World Cup, minor complications prevented him from featuring.

Sunrisers Hyderabad currently sit sixth in the IPL points table, with 2 points from 2 matches, having won only one game. They are set to face Lucknow Super Giants in their next fixture tomorrow. Meanwhile, Punjab Kings lead the table with 4 points from 2 matches.

IPL 2026 Sunrisers Hyderabad Standings

Cummins’ potential return later in the tournament will be closely monitored, with the franchise hoping that his experience and pace bowling prowess can make a significant impact in the latter half of the season and strengthen Sunrisers’ push for a playoff spot.