New Delhi [India], May 13: Australian stars Pat Cummins and Travis Head are expected to return to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) for the resumption of IPL 2025 on May 17, despite SRH being out of playoff contention. The update comes as both players were also named in Australia’s squad for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa, set to begin on June 11 at Lord’s.
The 18th edition of the Indian Premier League had been temporarily suspended due to escalating cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed on Monday that the tournament would resume on May 17 in Bengaluru, ending widespread speculation about its future.
Cummins Set to Return as Captain
According to ESPNcricinfo, Cummins, who also serves as SRH captain, and Head have communicated their decision to return to India. Neil Maxwell, Cummins’ manager, confirmed:
“Pat has a responsibility as captain of the franchise and is looking at returning.”
Cricket Australia to Support Player Decisions
Cricket Australia’s Head of National Teams, Ben Oliver, stated that the board would support players in making individual decisions about their participation in the remaining IPL fixtures, especially with the WTC Final on the horizon.
Uncertainty Around Other Overseas Players
There is no clarity yet on the availability of other overseas SRH players, including Heinrich Klaasen, Eshan Malinga, Kamindu Mendis, and Wiaan Mulder. Notably, Mulder has been named in South Africa’s squad for the WTC final.
SRH’s Underwhelming Season
Sunrisers Hyderabad, who were runners-up in IPL 2024, have endured a dismal 2025 campaign. Despite boasting a lineup of power-hitters, the team has underperformed, managing just three wins from 11 matches. SRH currently sits in eighth place on the points table.
Remaining Fixtures for SRH
Hyderabad will wrap up their season with three away matches:
- vs Lucknow Super Giants on May 19 in Lucknow
- vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru on May 23 in Bengaluru
- vs Kolkata Knight Riders on May 25 in Delhi
While playoff hopes are gone, SRH will look to salvage pride in their final games, with their international stars returning to boost morale and performance.