Pat Cummins is set to return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) after being medically cleared, with the Sunrisers Hyderabad captain targeting a comeback later this month.
Cummins, who had briefly joined the SRH camp at the start of the season, returned to Australia earlier in April for follow-up scans on a lingering back issue. Recent assessments in Sydney have confirmed that the lumbar bone stress injury — which had limited his appearances since July last year — has fully healed.
The Australian skipper indicated via social media that he is scheduled to fly back to India and is aiming to feature in SRH’s clash against Rajasthan Royals on April 25 in Jaipur.
Cummins was initially diagnosed with the stress injury in August after experiencing discomfort during Australia’s tour of the West Indies. The setback restricted him to just one appearance during the home season — the Adelaide Test against England — where he delivered an impressive six-wicket performance to help Australia retain The Ashes.
Although there had been optimism about his return in time for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, the tournament and the early stages of the IPL came too soon for the fast bowler.
SRH Holding Steady Amid Absence
Despite missing their captain, SRH have managed a steady start to the season, currently sitting fourth on the points table with two wins from five matches. The team rebounded strongly after a narrow loss to Punjab Kings — where they failed to defend a massive total of 219 — by securing a convincing 57-run victory over Rajasthan Royals.
In Cummins’ absence, Ishan Kishan has stepped in to lead the side. Head coach Daniel Vettori noted earlier that Cummins has remained actively involved with the squad, mentoring Kishan and contributing to leadership discussions even while recovering.
Workload Management Key for Australia Stars
Cummins’ return comes ahead of a demanding international calendar for Australia, who are scheduled to play at least 20 Test matches between August and next July. The packed schedule includes series against Bangladesh, South Africa, New Zealand, India, and England, along with a historic 150th anniversary Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Australia could also feature in the World Test Championship final in June if they qualify.
Meanwhile, fellow Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood has recently returned to action for Royal Challengers Bengaluru and is being cautiously managed following injury. He impressed with figures of 1 for 20 against Lucknow Super Giants after being rested for a match.
However, Mitchell Starc is yet to join Delhi Capitals as he continues his recovery from shoulder and elbow injuries sustained during the Big Bash League.
With Cummins’ return on the horizon, SRH will be boosted by the presence of their captain as the tournament heads into a crucial phase.
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