In a significant development for the IPL 2026 season, David Payne has been signed by Sunrisers Hyderabad as a replacement for Jack Edwards, who was ruled out due to injury. The announcement comes just as the tournament kicks off today, March 28, 2026.
Payne, a left-arm pacer and Gloucestershire’s highest white-ball wicket-taker with 323 wickets, will join the team for Rs 1.5 crore. His impressive track record includes 304 T20 wickets in 233 matches at an average of 21.16, showcasing his capabilities in the shorter format of the game.
Edwards, who was initially signed for Rs 3 crore, faced an unfortunate injury setback, prompting SRH to seek a replacement. Payne’s recent performance in the 2025/26 Big Bash League, where he took three wickets in the final and was named player of the match, further solidified his selection.
The IPL 2026 season is set to run from March 28 to May 31, with SRH opening the tournament against Royal Challengers Bangalore. This match marks the 28th encounter between the two teams, adding to the anticipation surrounding the event.
Payne has also made his mark in global T20 leagues, including the ILT20 and BBL, demonstrating his ability to perform on various platforms. His economy rate in T20 cricket stands at 8.03, making him a valuable asset for any team.
Having made one ODI appearance for England, where he took one wicket for 38 runs against the Netherlands in June 2022, Payne is looking to make a significant impact in the IPL. His experience and skill set will be crucial for SRH as they aim for success in the upcoming season.
As the cricketing world watches closely, the first reactions to Payne’s signing have been positive, with fans and analysts alike expressing optimism about his potential contributions to the team. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full impact of Edwards’ absence, but the focus now shifts to Payne’s performance on the field.
