Wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan will captain Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the initial matches of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, replacing the injured Pat Cummins. Abhishek Sharma will serve as Kishan’s deputy during this period. Cummins, sidelined due to a back injury since December 2025, is expected to join the team later in the IPL season.
Kishan, who led Jharkhand to victory in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, will be captaining an IPL team for the first time. Abhishek Sharma, known for his aggressive batting, will be the vice-captain alongside Kishan. SRH, the 2016 IPL champions, will kick off their IPL 2026 campaign against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on March 28.
Sunrisers Hyderabad’s decision to appoint Ishan Kishan as captain comes in light of Pat Cummins’ ongoing recovery from a back injury. Abhishek Sharma will support Kishan as the vice-captain during this period. Kishan, with a successful stint leading Jharkhand, brings valuable leadership experience to the team. SRH, gearing up to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their IPL 2026 opener, aims to start the season on a strong note.
