Sunrisers Hyderabad Faces Challenges Ahead of IPL 2026 Opener

As Sunrisers Hyderabad prepares for their IPL 2026 opener against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, they face significant hurdles due to injuries and player absences. Captain Pat Cummins is set to miss the initial matches, with Ishan Kishan stepping in as interim captain. Meanwhile, Eshan Malinga has been cleared to play, providing a boost to the team. Discover the latest updates on SRH's roster and challenges as they gear up for the season.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 24, 2026, 11:51 IST

SRH Prepares for IPL 2026 Season Opener

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) is gearing up to launch their IPL 2026 journey against the reigning champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on March 28 (Saturday). However, the team is facing significant challenges even before the tournament begins, primarily due to injuries and player absences. Their captain, Australian fast bowler Pat Cummins, has yet to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Cricket Australia, confirming his absence for the initial matches. In his stead, Ishan Kishan has been appointed as the interim captain.

In a surprising turn of events, despite not being officially cleared, Pat Cummins is scheduled to arrive in India for IPL 2026 on March 24, just four days prior to SRH's opening match. Nevertheless, it will be Ishan Kishan who represents the team at the captains' meeting in Mumbai on March 25 (Wednesday), which is set to commence at 12 pm and conclude with discussions involving BCCI officials from 4:30 pm to 6 pm.

Eshan Malinga Cleared to Play

In a positive development for SRH, reports from Cricbuzz indicate that Sri Lankan pacer Eshan Malinga, who was previously uncertain due to injury, has been cleared by Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) and is ready to participate in the entire IPL 2026 season. He will join the SRH squad along with his compatriot Kamindu Mendis, who has also received clearance from the BCCI. Conversely, Matheesha Pathirana (KKR), Wanindu Hasaranga (LSG), and Nuwan Thushara (RCB) are still awaiting clearance from the SLC, leaving their participation in IPL 2026 uncertain. Additionally, SRH has confirmed that Australian all-rounder Jack Edwards will miss the season due to a foot injury.