Sunrisers Hyderabad IPL 2026: Squad, Captain, Players and Team Guide
The Orange Army is back. Sunrisers Hyderabad, one of the most exciting and dynamic franchises in the Indian Premier League, enters IPL 2026 on a mission — to reclaim the glory that once defined them as champions. The Sunrisers won their maiden IPL title in the 2016 season, defeating Royal Challengers Bangalore in the final. A decade on, the hunger for a second title has never been stronger.
Sunrisers Hyderabad enter IPL 2026 with a powerful squad led by Pat Cummins, aiming to regain their former glory after an inconsistent 2025 IPL season, during which the team finished sixth with six wins and seven losses. With a bold auction strategy, a settled core, and some explosive new additions, SRH look ready to rewrite their story in 2026.
Team Overview — Sunrisers Hyderabad IPL 2026
The Sunrisers Hyderabad are a professional Twenty20 cricket team based in Hyderabad, Telangana. The franchise is owned by Kalanithi Maran of Sun Group and was founded in 2013 after the Hyderabad-based Deccan Chargers were terminated by the IPL. The team is captained by Pat Cummins and coached by Daniel Vettori, with their home ground being the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad, which has a capacity of 39,200.
IPL 2026 Auction — Bold Moves by SRH
Sunrisers Hyderabad adopted a clear and bold approach at the IPL 2026 mini-auction, held in Abu Dhabi on December 16, by placing strong faith in Indian domestic talent. With 369 players available, SRH used the early part of the auction to sign seven uncapped Indian players, highlighting their focus on building depth and future strength.
The franchise later added experience by signing England all-rounder Liam Livingstone during the accelerated bidding round. They further strengthened their bowling unit by bringing in India pacer Shivam Mavi, while Jack Edwards completed their overseas recruitment. SRH entered the auction with a solid retained core led by captain Pat Cummins, featuring key players such as Travis Head, Ishan Kishan, Heinrich Klaasen, and Abhishek Sharma.
Mohammed Shami was traded to Lucknow Super Giants for an all-cash deal prior to the players release and retention deadline. During the IPL 2026 auction, SRH purchased 10 players including Liam Livingstone, Jack Edwards, Shivam Mavi, and Salil Arora.
Key Players to Watch in IPL 2026
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IPL 2026 Season Opener
As per the IPL 2026 schedule, the first match of the season is played between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 28 at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. This marquee opening fixture sets the tone perfectly — two of the IPL’s most explosive batting sides going head to head to kick off the season in front of a packed house.
SRH’s Record-Breaking Legacy
The team holds the record for the highest-ever IPL total with 287 runs. On 27 March 2024, Sunrisers Hyderabad surpassed Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s 11-year-old record of 263 runs by scoring 277 against Mumbai Indians. On 15 April 2024, they broke their own record with a sensational 287 for three against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. David Warner is the leading run scorer for the team, having won the Orange Cap three times, in 2015, 2017, and 2019. Bhuvneshwar Kumar is the leading wicket-taker, having won the Purple Cap twice, in 2016 and 2017.
Can SRH Win IPL 2026?
SRH enter IPL 2026 with one of the most potent batting line-ups in the tournament. The combination of Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma at the top is arguably the most destructive opening pair in T20 cricket today. Klaasen and Livingstone in the middle order provide depth that few teams can match. The team management has focused on maintaining stability, backing its aggressive style of play by retaining the same players who helped the team remain competitive last season.
The one concern heading into the season is Cummins’ fitness. His absence in the early matches could affect both the captaincy and the pace bowling attack. However, with Ishan Kishan stepping up as leader and a young, hungry squad around him, SRH have every reason to believe that this could be the year the Orange Army rises again.
Conclusion
Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL 2026 are a team built for entertainment and excellence. With firepower at the top, experience in the middle, and exciting young talent in the ranks, SRH are genuine title contenders. Whether you are a die-hard Orange Army fan, a fantasy cricket enthusiast, or simply a lover of explosive T20 cricket, Sunrisers Hyderabad are the team to watch this season. Rise up, SRH!
Mumbai Indians
Mumbai Indians is one of the most successful franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL), known for its passionate fanbase and exceptional talent. Founded in 2008, the team has clinched multiple IPL titles, showcasing a blend of experienced players and young prospects. With a strong leadership legacy, including former captain Rohit Sharma, the Mumbai Indians have consistently demonstrated resilience and strategic prowess on the field. Their iconic blue and gold colors represent their spirit and determination. The team’s home ground, Wankhede Stadium, is a fortress for thrilling matches, making every game a celebration of cricket in Mumbai.
[…] Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) is a prominent franchise cricket team in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Established in 2012, the team is based in Hyderabad, Telangana. SRH has gained a reputation for its strong performances, particularly under the leadership of notable players like David Warner. The team plays its home matches at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, where passionate fans create an electrifying atmosphere. Known for their exceptional bowling attack and explosive batting lineup, Sunrisers Hyderabad has consistently been a formidable competitor in the IPL, aiming for championship glory with each season. The team’s vibrant orange jersey symbolizes their fighting spirit. […]