Travis Head Struggles to Find Form in IPL 2026
Travis Head, the Australian batsman, has had a rocky start to the IPL 2026 season, especially considering his impressive past performances with the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). In the previous two seasons, he scored 567 runs in 2024 and 374 runs in 2025. However, this season has not been kind to him.
Despite shining in the recent Ashes series, Head has faced challenges in the IPL. After six matches, he has only managed 143 runs, averaging 23.83 with a strike rate of 144.44. In his latest match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK), he scored just 23 runs off 20 balls, unable to build on a promising start.
What’s Going Wrong?
Former players Ambati Rayudu and Aaron Finch have analyzed Head’s game and identified some issues. Rayudu pointed out that Head seems to be trying too hard to hit on the onside, moving away from his natural strength of attacking the offside. He believes bowlers have noticed this and are bowling fuller, making it tougher for Head to play his usual shots freely.
Rayudu explained, “He’s been waiting for shorter deliveries to hit on the onside, thinking this is where he should improve. But this has taken him away from what really works for him, which is hitting through the offside.”
Finch added that the use of slower balls has disrupted Head’s rhythm. He highlighted that by mixing up deliveries early on, bowlers are preventing Head from settling into a groove. Finch said, “When he gets a consistent pace to work with, he can be highly effective, especially with good-length balls. But now, bowlers are either sending it full or mixing speeds, making it hard for him to capitalize.”
Finch also mentioned that once Head gets into his rhythm, he becomes a formidable player, but unfortunately, he hasn’t found that groove yet.
Next up, SRH will face Delhi Capitals on Tuesday, April 21, hoping to turn Head’s form around and secure a needed victory.
Stay tuned for more IPL updates!
