David Payne Joins Sunrisers Hyderabad as Replacement
Key moments
In a significant development for the Indian Premier League (IPL), David Payne has been signed by Sunrisers Hyderabad as a replacement for Jack Edwards on March 28, 2026. This move comes in light of Akash Deep being ruled out of the IPL 2026 season due to a lumbar stress injury, leaving a gap in the team’s bowling lineup.
Payne, 35, has an impressive record in T20 cricket, having taken 304 wickets in 233 matches. His experience will be invaluable for Sunrisers Hyderabad as they aim to strengthen their squad for the ongoing season. Last year, Jack Edwards, the player he is replacing, was the second-highest wicket-taker in the Big Bash League, securing 19 wickets in 13 games, which underscores the challenge ahead for Payne to meet similar expectations.
Before joining Sunrisers Hyderabad, Payne showcased his skills in the Big Bash League, where he played a pivotal role in the Perth Scorchers’ title-winning campaign. He took 11 wickets in just six outings, boasting an impressive average of 13.5. This performance has certainly contributed to his reputation as a reliable bowler in the T20 format.
Payne’s IPL contract is valued at Rs 1.5 crore, a financial commitment that reflects the franchise’s confidence in his abilities. In his career, he has also made a mark on the international stage, having earned an ODI cap for England in 2022, where he played against the Netherlands.
Reflecting on his journey, Payne stated, “I’ve got out of the cycle of thinking about the call coming, if I’m honest.” He expressed a sense of relief and focus on the franchise world, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the IPL experience. He added, “Being quite a lengthy tournament, it needed to be worthwhile financially from a family point of view,” highlighting the balance between professional commitments and personal life.
Phil Weston, a representative for Payne, hinted at the likelihood of an offer from Sunrisers Hyderabad over the weekend, indicating that negotiations were progressing positively. This development has been met with anticipation from fans and analysts alike, eager to see how Payne will adapt to the pressures of the IPL.
As the IPL season unfolds, all eyes will be on David Payne to see if he can replicate his successful performances from the Big Bash League and contribute significantly to Sunrisers Hyderabad’s campaign. With the franchise’s reliance on his experience, Payne’s performance will be crucial in the coming matches.