Ishan Kishan will lead Sunrisers Hyderabad for the opening few matches of the Indian Premier League 2026, stepping in for Pat Cummins, who is yet to fully recover from a back injury. Abhishek Sharma will serve as Kishan’s deputy during this period. According to reports, the arrangement is only temporary, with regular captain Cummins set to resume leadership duties once he regains full fitness.

Following his side’s successful T20 World Cup campaign, Indian wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan, who made a triumphant return to the team, expressed hope that his performances will serve as a motivation for young players in the country. SRH begin their campaign against defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on the 28th of this month. Their second fixture is also away, against Kolkata Knight Riders on the 2nd of next month, before they return home to face Lucknow Super Giants on the 5th of next month.