Sunrisers Hyderabad Weigh Leadership Options as Pat Cummins Faces IPL 2026 Absence

Sunrisers Hyderabad's regular captain Pat Cummins is expected to miss the first few matches of IPL 2026 due to a persistent back injury sustained during the 2025-26 Ashes series. In his absence, the team is considering new leadership options, with reports highlighting Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan as leading candidates. Sharma, a five-year franchise player and recent T20 World Cup winner, and Kishan, noted for his leadership in domestic cricket and strong recent performances, are both vying for the captaincy. The franchise has yet to confirm the final decision ahead of their season opener against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on March 28.