SRH vs LSG, IPL 2026: Vettori praises playing group for initiative amidst Cummins absence
With a Pat Cummins-shaped elephant in the room every time one sits down to dissect a Sunrisers Hyderabad performance, Daniel Vettori has found comfort in the initiative taken by the playing pool.
âIt was very satisfying in those conditions because we know Eden Gardens is a difficult place to defend, much like here,â Vettori said, particularly hailing his youthful spin attack.Â
âHarsh Dubey and Shivang Kumar played a big part. We identified Harsh last year, and heâs grown as a bowler with consistent success. Shivang was tracked closely by our scouting group, along with Krains (Fuletra) and Zeeshan Ahmed.â
âWeâve put a lot of emphasis on improving that group because spin is tough here, not just for us, but for opposition as well. Itâs rare for a spinner to dominate, so having a left-arm wrist-spinner gives us a valuable option.â
Vettori confirmed that a final scan on April 15 will determine the timeline of Cumminsâ return, who has flown back home for the same. In his absence, the Kiwi lauded Jaydev Unadkatâs impact.Â
âLike Pat, he can bowl at all stages, which is crucial when scoring rates are high. Even if he doesnât start well, we trust him in the middle and at the death. With Pat unavailable, you can see Ishan using him in different roles.â
Beyond his on-field utility, Unadkatâs years around the Indian setup have also proven useful.Â
âHeâs someone you can always talk cricket with. He understands the domestic circuit deeply, and we rely on his insights into players the coaching staff may not have seen much of.â
Published on Apr 04, 2026
