IPL 2026: If Pat Cummins returns, should SRH stick with Ishan Kishan as captain?

With Pat Cummins set to return to the Sunrisers Hyderabad camp, the franchise finds itself at a crucial crossroads midway through the IPL season. The Australian had been central to SRH’s run to the final last year, but his absence this season opened the door for a new leader to step in and reshape the side’s dynamics.

That responsibility has fallen on Ishan Kishan, who has led the team in Cummins’ absence. What initially appeared to be a stop-gap arrangement has quickly evolved into a compelling leadership case, with Kishan guiding the side through a turbulent start and into a more stable, winning phase.

SRH’s season has been one of recovery and recalibration. After a string of early defeats, the team has found its rhythm, with improved bowling performances and better on-field coordination. Much of that turnaround has coincided with Kishan settling into the captaincy role and building a stronger understanding with his players.

With Cummins now back in contention after recovering from injury, SRH must decide whether to return to their proven leader or continue backing a young captain who has helped revive their campaign. The decision is far from straightforward and could have significant implications for the remainder of their season.

Kishan’s leadership earns backing

The debate has gained traction, with former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh advocating for continuity under Kishan. Speaking on JioHotstar, Harbhajan said SRH should resist the temptation to revert to Cummins immediately.

“Ishan Kishan should continue as Sunrisers Hyderabad captain even if Pat Cummins returns. It is a debatable call, but if the team has backed a young leader, they should stick with him,” Harbhajan said.

He acknowledged Cummins’ impact in leading SRH to the final in 2024 but emphasised that the current setup appears settled under Kishan. “The bowlers and other players have built good coordination with him. Keeping Ishan as captain will benefit Sunrisers Hyderabad,” he added.

SRH’s recent performances support that argument. After a mixed start to the campaign, the team has found rhythm, winning four of their last five matches, including convincing victories over Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals. Kishan’s calm on-field presence and proactive decision-making have drawn praise from multiple quarters.

Bangar raises fitness, continuity concerns

Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar also backed Kishan to continue as captain, highlighting both tactical and practical factors.

“Ishan Kishan as a leader is tactically very good in terms of how he uses his bowlers. He understands which bowlers to use against which batters. It is a clear marker of how well he controls the game,” Bangar said on Star Sports.

Bangar pointed to Kishan’s composure under pressure, noting that the young captain “doesn’t look clustered, is not hurried, and is taking the right calls on the field.” His handling of spin options, particularly in the win over Delhi Capitals, stood out as a key example.

Importantly, Bangar also raised concerns about Cummins’ fitness. The Australian skipper is returning from a stress reaction in his lower back, which kept him out of the T20 World Cup and delayed his IPL 2026 campaign.

“You cannot be sure about how fit a bowler of Pat Cummins’ calibre will stay throughout the rest of IPL, considering the niggles he’s been dealing with,” Bangar said, adding that continuity in leadership could prove crucial for SRH.

Cummins is expected to be available for SRH’s clash against Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur, setting up a major selection call for the team management.

Uncapped stars step up in SRH revival

Another key factor in Sunrisers Hyderabad’s turnaround has been the emergence of uncapped players Praful Hinge and Sakib Hussain. The duo have stepped up in crucial moments, providing balance and energy to the side during the mid-season phase. Their contributions, particularly with the ball, have complemented the senior players and given Kishan more flexibility as a captain.

Sakib, in particular, has benefited from the clarity in communication from the skipper, with Kishan emphasising a simple, pressure-free approach. The rise of these uncapped names has added depth to the squad and played a significant role in SRH regaining momentum in the tournament.

“My relationship with the bowlers is about keeping things simple and positive. This is T20 cricket, everyone gets hit. What matters is how you come back,” Kishan said, stressing the need to reset quickly and trust execution under pressure.

SRH’s season and the road ahead

Sunrisers Hyderabad’s campaign has been a tale of recovery. They began with a defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Bengaluru before registering a dominant 65-run win over Kolkata Knight Riders. Losses to Lucknow Super Giants and Punjab Kings followed, putting early pressure on the side.

However, SRH responded strongly, beating Rajasthan Royals by 57 runs, Chennai Super Kings by 10 runs and Delhi Capitals by 47 runs to climb back into contention.

As SRH prepare for the business end of the tournament, the captaincy call could shape their campaign. Whether they opt for Cummins’ experience or Kishan’s continuity, the decision will reflect the franchise’s long-term vision as much as its immediate ambitions.

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