Key moments

David Payne, an English cricketer, has officially signed with Sunrisers Hyderabad as an injury replacement for Australian player Jack Edwards, ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The announcement was made on March 28, 2026, in Bengaluru, India, marking a significant milestone in Payne’s career.

At 35 years old, Payne is one of the few English players to enter the IPL without prior T20 experience. His recent performance in the Big Bash League (BBL) has drawn attention, where he took 11 wickets in just six matches, boasting an impressive average of 13.5. This performance has undoubtedly contributed to his selection for the IPL.

Payne’s journey to this point has not been without its challenges. He underwent two ankle surgeries in the past three years, which raised concerns about his fitness and ability to compete at high levels. However, he has shown resilience and determination, bouncing back to play a pivotal role in two tournament finals in early 2023, including a man-of-the-match performance against the Sydney Sixers.

In 2022, Payne earned his ODI cap for England, further solidifying his status as a valuable player. His recent contract with Sunrisers Hyderabad is reportedly worth £120,000, a significant financial commitment that reflects the team’s confidence in his abilities.

Payne has expressed mixed feelings about leaving his family, including his two young daughters, Ferne and Autumn, for an extended period during the IPL. He acknowledged the difficulty of being away from them but emphasized that he is doing this for their future security. “It’s not going to be easy, by any means, leaving the girls for a long time, being the ages they are, but I guess the way I’ve got to look at it is that I’m doing it as security for them,” he stated.

His transition into the IPL comes at a time when he is looking to prove himself on a larger stage. “In a way, I’ve got to believe that will work. I had a year or two around being picked for England, and pace seemed to be the problem for me,” Payne commented, reflecting on his past experiences and the challenges he has faced.

As he prepares for the upcoming season, Payne’s focus will be on maintaining his fitness and contributing effectively to the Sunrisers Hyderabad. His recent performances in the BBL and his determination to succeed in the IPL will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. The cricket community is eager to see how he adapts to the demands of the IPL and whether he can continue his upward trajectory in his career.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific role Payne will play within the Sunrisers Hyderabad squad, but his experience and recent form suggest he will be a key player in their campaign. As the IPL approaches, all eyes will be on David Payne and his contributions to the team.