Sunrisers Hyderabad have brought in David Payne as replacement for Jack Edwards, who had been ruled out of IPL 2026 with a foot injury.
Payne’s T20 Career
Payne, the 35-year-old England left-arm quick, is having a career resurgence since giving up first-class cricket. He was a proven performer in the County Championship, having made his debut in April 2011 but that translated into only one ODI cap for his country and some injury issues. So he gave up on the red-ball cricket and has since gained acclaim on the T20 circuit both at home and abroad. He has played 233 T20s and picked up 304 wickets at an average of 21.16 and an economy rate of 8.03.
Payne was the highest wicket-taker (33) in the Vitality Blast two years ago, leading his team, Gloucestershire, to the title. He spoke of bowling in the powerplay as his “super strength.”
Recent Successes
Payne is also noted for his slower ball. He won the ILT20 with Desert Vipers in January 2026 and a few weeks later was Player of the Final in the BBL, when he picked up 3 for 18 for Perth Scorchers against Sydney Sixers.
Cummins Unavailable
Sunrisers are having to contend with their captain Pat Cummins being unavailable for the initial part of the IPL as he recovers from a lumbar stress fracture. They play the opening game of the season, on March 28, facing the defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Bengaluru.