David Payne has joined Sunrisers Hyderabad as a replacement for Jack Edwards, bringing significant experience to the team ahead of IPL 2026.
In a significant development for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, David Payne has been signed by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) as a replacement for Jack Edwards, who has been ruled out due to injury. This announcement was made on March 28, 2026, coinciding with the opening match of the season against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
David Payne, a left-arm pacer, is Gloucestershire’s highest white-ball wicket-taker with an impressive tally of 323 wickets. His signing comes at a cost of Rs 1.5 crore, a strategic move by SRH to bolster their bowling lineup after Edwards was initially signed for Rs 3 crore.
Payne’s experience in T20 cricket is noteworthy, having taken 304 wickets in 233 matches at an average of 21.16, and an economy rate of 8.03. He has also showcased his skills in global T20 leagues, including the ILT20 and BBL, where he was particularly outstanding in the 2025/26 Big Bash League final, taking three wickets and earning the player of the match title.
The IPL 2026 season runs from March 28 to May 31, with SRH looking to make a strong start against RCB, a team they have faced 28 times in the tournament’s history. Payne’s addition is expected to enhance SRH’s bowling attack significantly.
Having made one ODI appearance for England, where he took one wicket for 38 runs against the Netherlands in June 2022, Payne is no stranger to high-pressure situations. His ability to deliver in crucial moments will be vital for SRH as they aim for success this season.
Payne’s career began to gain attention in 2010, when he made a notable impact in a 40-over game against Essex. Since then, he has developed into a reliable bowler, known for his ability to take wickets and control the game.
As the IPL season unfolds, reactions from fans and analysts are already pouring in, with many expressing optimism about Payne’s potential contribution to SRH. His track record in T20 leagues and recent performances suggest that he could be a key player for the team.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding how Payne will fit into the SRH lineup, but expectations are high for his debut match against RCB. The cricketing community is eager to see how he adapts to the pressures of the IPL and contributes to his new team.
