Sunrisers Hyderabad Sign David Payne as Replacement for Injured Jack Edwards

Sunrisers Hyderabad sign David Payne as a replacement for injured Jack Edwards, boosting their pace attack ahead of IPL 2026 amid key absences.

Sunrisers Hyderabad have signed David Payne as a replacement for Jack Edwards, who has been ruled out of IPL 2026 due to a foot injury.

The 35-year-old English seamer, fresh off multiple T20 successes, adds valuable experience to the SRH pace attack. Payne has built a strong reputation in the shortest format, particularly after stepping away from red-ball cricket to focus on white-ball competitions.

Payne’s T20 Rise and Impressive Record

Payne initially made his mark in domestic cricket, featuring in the County Championship since his debut in 2011. However, limited international opportunities and recurring injury concerns led him to shift his focus entirely to T20 cricket.

Since then, he has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence, becoming a consistent performer across leagues. In 233 T20 matches, Payne has claimed 304 wickets at an average of 21.16, maintaining an economy rate of 8.03.

He was the leading wicket-taker in the Vitality Blast two years ago, picking up 33 wickets and guiding Gloucestershire to the title. Known for his control in the powerplay, Payne once described this phase of bowling as his “super strength.”

ALSO READ | Rahul Dravid Praises Sanju Samson For Outstanding T20 World Cup 2026

His variations, particularly his effective slower deliveries, have also made him a dangerous option in the death overs. Recently, he won the ILT20 with Desert Vipers in early 2026 and followed it up with a standout performance in the Big Bash League, where he was named Player of the Final after taking 3 for 18 for Perth Scorchers against Sydney Sixers.

SRH Face Early Challenges Ahead of IPL 2026 Opener

Sunrisers Hyderabad will have to navigate the early part of the season without their captain Pat Cummins, who is recovering from a lumbar stress fracture.

Their IPL 2026 campaign begins with a high-profile clash against defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru on March 28 in Bengaluru.

With Payne’s inclusion and key players unavailable, SRH will be aiming to strike the right balance as they look to start their campaign on a strong note.