Aussie Stars Set to Rejoin IPL Amidst Tension

Pat Cummins and Travis Head, prominent Australian cricketers scheduled for next month's World Test Championship final, are expected to rejoin Sunrisers Hyderabad before the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 resumes on May 17, as reported by ESPNcricinfo. The league's 18th edition was put on hold due to India's ongoing cross-border tensions with Pakistan. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed on Monday that IPL matches will recommence this Saturday in Bengaluru.

Australia announced on Tuesday morning that both Cummins and Head are part of their squad for the World Test Championship final against South Africa, starting on June 11. Although concerns arose regarding their participation given Hyderabad's slim playoff chances, it seems the duo plans to return. Cummins, managing his responsibilities as Hyderabad's captain, has informed SRH of his intent to return to India, with his manager, Neil Maxwell, corroborating the news.

However, ESPNcricinfo has reported no official word on whether other overseas players such as Heinrich Klaasen, Eshan Malinga, Kamindu Mendis, and Wiaan Mulder will also rejoin SRH. Mulder is listed in South Africa's squad for the imminent WTC final. Showing lackluster performance this season, Hyderabad, which placed as runners-up last year, now ranks eighth in the standings with just three victories from 11 games. They are set to end their campaign with matches against LSG, RCB, and KKR.

(With inputs from agencies.)