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.

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Ashton Turner has been appointed as the captain of Multan Sultans for the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 season, a decision that is expected to significantly impact the team’s performance and dynamics. This leadership change comes at a crucial time as the PSL season is set to begin later in March 2026, and the Sultans will be looking to improve their standing in the league.

Turner, a 32-year-old Australian cricketer, brings a wealth of experience to the role. He has previously captained the Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League, leading them to three titles during his tenure. His successful track record in high-pressure situations is seen as a valuable asset for the Multan Sultans, who are aiming for greater success in the PSL.

Known for his calm decision-making and aggressive batting style, Turner has played three matches in the Pakistan Super League prior to this appointment, scoring a total of 15 runs with an average of 5 and a strike rate of 140. While his performance in the PSL has been modest so far, his leadership qualities and experience in other leagues are expected to enhance the team’s overall performance.

Multan Sultans, formerly known as the Sialkot Stallionz, underwent a rebranding after a takeover by Gohar Shah-led CD Ventures. This change in leadership is part of a broader strategy to revitalize the franchise and improve its competitiveness within the league. The management believes that Turner brings a winning mentality, high professionalism, and the ability to inspire players, which are essential for the team’s growth.

In a statement regarding his new role, Turner expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “Leading Multan Sultans is a proud opportunity and I am looking forward to representing the franchise’s supporters.” His commitment to the team and its fans is expected to foster a positive environment as the season approaches.

The Multan Sultans will be looking to capitalize on Turner’s experience and leadership to make a significant impact in PSL 11. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, the focus will be on building a cohesive unit that can compete effectively against other franchises in the league.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific strategies Turner plans to implement as captain, but his appointment marks a new chapter for the Multan Sultans. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this leadership change influences the team’s performance in the highly competitive environment of the Pakistan Super League.

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