IPL 2026: Sunrisers Hyderabad sign Gerald Coetzee as David Payne replacement

NEW DELHI: Sunrisers Hyderabad have signed Gerald Coetzee as a replacement for David Payne for the remainder of IPL 2026. SRH confirmed the development in an official media advisory on Saturday, with Payne ruled out due to an ankle injury. The left-arm pacer played two matches this season and picked up two wickets before being sidelined.

"Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have signed Gerald Coetzee as a replacement for David Payne for the remainder of TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Payne - who played 2 games for SRH in the ongoing IPL season and picked 2 wickets from the same - is ruled out of the remainder of the season due to an ankle injury," the league said in a statement.

Coetzee, a right-arm fast bowler, brings valuable international experience, having represented South Africa national cricket team across formats. The 24-year-old has featured in four Tests, 14 ODIs and 18 T20Is, taking a combined 67 wickets.

He had gone unsold in this year’s auction but has prior IPL experience with Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans, claiming 15 wickets in 14 matches.

The 25-year-old was part of South Africa’s squad for the T20 World Cup but did not get a game. After the tournament, he played all five T20Is against New Zealand. He will join SRH for INR 2 crore.

Meanwhile, SRH have also been boosted by the return of captain Pat Cummins, who linked up with the squad on April 17 and is expected to feature in their April 25 clash against Rajasthan Royals. Currently placed fifth on the table, SRH are set to face Chennai Super Kings on April 18.

Coetzee, known for his pace and aggressive style, adds further strength to SRH’s bowling unit as they push for a strong finish to the season. He joins the Hyderabad-based franchise for INR 2 crore as a like-for-like pace replacement following Payne’s injury setback.