Because the nineteenth version of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 approaches, the highlight has shifted towards the Orange Military. Since their inception in 2013, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) has been a franchise outlined by its bowling-first DNA and a knack for producing scientific, albeit typically conservative, management. From the grit of David Warner to the tactical calm of Kane Williamson, the staff has navigated numerous eras with various levels of success. Nevertheless, the 2026 season brings a contemporary narrative.
Ishan Kishan to steer SRH for first two video games in Pat Cummins’ absence
In a major improvement, the franchise has confirmed that India’s explosive wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan will lead Sunrisers Hyderabad for the opening matches of the season. This appointment comes as common skipper Pat Cummins continues his rehabilitation for a decrease again stress harm sustained earlier throughout Australian summer season. Cummins, who led SRH to the ultimate in 2024, is anticipated to affix the squad later within the event.
Kishan, who was acquired by SRH for ₹11.25 crore, enters this position on the peak of his powers. Recent off a sensational T20 World Cup 2026 marketing campaign the place he amassed 317 runs at a strike charge of 193.29, and having led Jharkhand to their maiden Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title in 2025, Kishan represents a extra aggressive, fashionable period of SRH management alongside his deputy, Abhishek Sharma.
Record of all Sunrisers Hyderabad captains up to now
The captaincy at Sunrisers Hyderabad has typically been a revolving door, reflecting the franchise’s pursuit of the right stability between abroad stars and Indian mainstays. The journey started in 2013 with a dual-captaincy strategy and reached its zenith in 2016 underneath Warner.
- Kumar Sangakkara (2013)
The legendary Sri Lankan was the primary to carry the reins. Whereas his tactical acumen was by no means doubtful, his private kind struggled within the shortest format. In 9 matches, he led the staff to 4 wins, sustaining a 44.44%-win charge. Ultimately, he famously stepped except for the taking part in XI to permit for a greater staff stability.
- Cameron White (2013)
Taking up mid-season from Kumar Sangakkara, Cameron White supplied a short however efficient spark. Underneath his management in 8 video games, the staff gained 5, boasting a strong 62.5%-win proportion. He was instrumental in guiding SRH to the playoffs of their debut season.
- Shikhar Dhawan (2013–2014)
‘Gabbar’ was handed the captaincy to carry an Indian face to the management. Nevertheless, the added accountability appeared to weigh on his pure aptitude. Throughout 16 matches, the staff secured 7 wins, leading to a 43.75%-win charge. He ultimately relinquished the position to give attention to his batting.
- Darren Sammy (2014)
The 2-time T20 World Cup-winning captain introduced a Caribbean vibe to the camp. His stint was brief—simply 4 matches—leading to an excellent 2-2 file (50%-win charge).
- David Warner (2015–2021)
Statistically and emotionally, Warner is the best captain in SRH historical past. He led the aspect in 67 matches, successful 35 of them. His crowning achievement was the 2016 IPL Title. With a win proportion of 53.73% and three Orange Caps throughout his tenure, Warner’s legacy is synonymous with the franchise’s golden period.
Additionally READ: 3 reasons why Kavya Maran’s SRH should appoint Ishan Kishan as captain in Pat Cummins’ absence
- Kane Williamson (2018–2022)
When Warner was unavailable, Kane Williamson stepped in with a ‘captain cool’ demeanor. He led the staff to the 2018 remaining and maintained a win proportion of 48.91% throughout 46 video games. His tactical brilliance typically made up for an absence of uncooked tempo within the SRH arsenal.
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar (2019–2023)
The veteran swing king Bhuvneshwar Kumar acted as a dependable stand-in over a number of seasons. In 8 matches as captain, he managed 2 wins. Whereas his particular person brilliance remained, the staff typically struggled to seek out rhythm underneath his momentary management (25%-win charge).
- Manish Pandey & Aiden Markram (2021–2023)
Manish Pandey led for a single recreation (a loss), whereas Aiden Markram took over in 2023 after main Sunrisers Japanese Cape to a title in SA20. Markram led in 13 video games however discovered the IPL robust, securing solely 4 wins (30.76%).
- Pat Cummins (2024)
The transition to Cummins in 2024 remodeled SRH right into a record-breaking batting powerhouse. Cummins introduced a fearless Australian mentality, main the staff to the 2024 remaining and sustaining a win charge of 51.72% over 30 matches. His absence in the beginning of 2026 creates a singular void.
- Ishan Kishan (2025)
Kishan’s momentary elevation is greater than only a stop-gap; it’s a trial for the long run. Because the No. 2 ranked T20I batter on the earth, Kishan’s captaincy type is anticipated to be ‘hyper-aggressive.’ For a staff that just lately began posting 250+ scores with regularity, Kishan’s intuition to assault from the primary ball aligns completely with the present SRH philosophy.
Whether or not he can preserve the tactical self-discipline required to navigate the center overs stays to be seen, however with 24 wins in 29 T20s as a captain on the home degree, the numbers counsel he’s prepared for the massive stage.
Additionally READ: IPL: Complete list of all Rajasthan Royals (RR) captains so far ft. Riyan Parag and Sanju Samson
