Pat Cummins has provided a positive update on his recovery from a back injury ahead of IPL 2026 while also raising concerns over the growing strain between international commitments and franchise cricket.
The Sunrisers Hyderabad skipper took to Instagram on Thursday, posting a picture in his team jersey with the caption, “Good to be back,” signalling progress in his rehabilitation.
Speaking on the Business of Sport podcast, Cummins confirmed that he has resumed bowling in the nets and is gradually increasing his workload under a structured plan.
“I’m still recovering from a back injury, but it’s good. I’m back bowling in the nets,” he said.
However, the Australian fast bowler mentioned he will miss the initial phase of the IPL season.
“The IPL is starting soon. I won’t make the start of that, but it shouldn’t be too long before I’m back out there playing,” he added.
Cummins revealed that he is currently bowling every third day, with a targeted return around the middle of the tournament.
“We’ve mapped out a plan to get me right by the middle of the tournament, so hopefully, if nothing goes wrong, I’ll play the back half plus the finals,” he stated.
In his absence, Ishan Kishan has been named stand-in skipper for Hyderabad.
Cummins’ injury concerns follow a limited run of appearances over the past year, including missing the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup due to a back stress issue.
Beyond his recovery, Cummins also reflected on the evolving landscape of modern cricket, highlighting the increasing tension between international duties and franchise leagues.
“Still very keen to play all three formats… I love Test cricket. Hopefully I’m in a cadence where I can keep doing that for three, four, five years,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to representing Australia across formats.
He noted that while players continue to prioritise international cricket, often at the cost of lucrative franchise opportunities, the balance may not hold indefinitely.
“Some of our guys are saying no to a half a million pounds for 20 days work to go and play Test matches… but that’s not going to be the case forever,” Cummins observed.
As global leagues continue to expand and offer increasing financial incentives, the Australian captain believes the sport is approaching a critical juncture.
“I think it’s at a tension point… and it’s only growing,” he added, underlining the challenges cricket faces in maintaining equilibrium between national pride and franchise opportunities.