Ishan Kishan will be leading Sunrisers Hyderabad for a few matches in the upcoming IPL 2026 season, filling in for regular skipper Pat Cummins who will be unavailable for the opening games. Kishan’s performance in the T20 World Cup 2026, where India successfully defended their title, has put the spotlight on him as he takes on this new role.
In the season opener against Royal Challengers Bangalore, Kishan will face a familiar opponent, having played 14 IPL matches against them with a balanced record of seven wins and seven defeats. He has scored 478 runs off 290 balls at an average of 36.77 and a strike rate of 164.8, with three half-centuries against RCB.
SRH head coach Daniel Vettori expressed confidence in Kishan’s leadership abilities, citing his experience in the IPL and success in leading his state team to victory in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Vettori believes that Kishan, along with teammate Abhishek, will lead the team effectively this season.
Last season, Kishan was purchased by SRH for ₹11.25 crore and scored 354 runs in 14 matches at a strike rate of 152.58. Vettori praised Kishan’s leadership qualities and form, highlighting his contribution to the team’s success in the previous season.
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