Daijiworld Media Network – Hyderabad
Hyderabad, May 18: In a surprising development during the resumed phase of IPL 2025, Sunrisers Hyderabad's Australian opener Travis Head has tested positive for COVID-19. He will miss the upcoming clash against Lucknow Super Giants scheduled for Monday, May 19.
Confirming the news, SRH head coach Daniel Vettori said that Head contracted the virus while in Australia and, as a result, could not travel back to India with other overseas players. “Travis Head tested positive for Covid in Australia. He will arrive in India on Monday morning, but won’t be available for the match against Lucknow,” Vettori said at a press conference.
The IPL 2025 season was earlier suspended midway due to tensions between India and Pakistan. All foreign players had returned to their respective countries. While SRH skipper Pat Cummins has already rejoined the team, Head's delayed return was clarified with the revelation of his Covid infection.
Although his presence has been impactful throughout the tournament, Vettori added that Head’s absence won’t significantly affect the team's performance, as Sunrisers Hyderabad are already out of playoff contention.
This incident marks the first Covid case reported in the IPL in the past four years. The last time such cases disrupted the tournament was in 2021, leading to a mid-season halt and a subsequent shift to the UAE for completion.
Head’s participation in the remaining matches will depend on his recovery and further assessment upon arrival.