The last 2 months have proved to be great for Team India's star wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan. On one hand, he returned to Team India, on the other hand he also became a part of the T20 World Cup 2026 and played a big role in India winning the title. Now Ishaan's focus is on IPL 2026, where he will take the field for Sunrisers Hyderabad. This season is also going to be special for Ishaan because he has been made the captain of the team for some matches. But now suddenly the question is arising – will he be able to captain?

This question is arising because of Sunrisers Hyderabad's regular captain Pat Cummins, who is struggling with his fitness. Actually, Cummins could not play in the T20 World Cup due to injury and then he was being ruled out of the initial matches of IPL also. Due to this SRH officially Ishaan Kishan Was appointed captain for the start of the season, while Abhishek Sharma was made vice-captain.

Ishaan will not be able to captain?

Ishan Kishan has never captained in IPL till now and this could be his first time. But will this be possible? This question is arising because Pat Cummins is joining SRH even before the start of the tournament. Cricbuzz report has revealed that Cummins will reach Bengaluru on Tuesday, March 24 and will join SRH, where the team will face host and defending champion Royal Challengers Bangalore in the first match of the season on March 28.

Sunrisers squad is also reaching Bengaluru on the same day for this match. In such a situation, questions are being raised whether Cummins will return as captain? At present the situation on this is not clear. It has been told in the report that Ishaan will represent SRH in the captains' meeting to be held in Mumbai on March 25. If this is seen as an indication, then it seems that Ishaan will be the captain for one or two matches, so that Cummins also becomes fully fit.

Malinga got permission

Apart from the return of Cummins, a big relief for Sunrisers has come with the fitness of fast bowler Ishan Malinga. According to the report, this right-arm pacer from Sri Lanka Cricket has got the No Objection Certificate (NoC) for the IPL after passing the fitness test and he will join the team before the tournament. However, Nuwan Thushara (RCB), Matisha Patirana (KKR) and Wanindu Hasaranga (LSG) have not received permission yet.