Hyderabad, May 5, 2025 – Sachin Baby’s return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) after a four-year absence stole the spotlight as Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) faced Delhi Capitals in a crucial IPL 2025 clash at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. The 36-year-old batter, last seen in 2021 for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, marked his comeback after 1,323 days, joining an elite list of players with the longest gaps between IPL appearances. For SRH, languishing ninth with just three wins in 10 matches, Baby’s inclusion was part of a bold reshuffle to keep their playoff hopes alive.

Baby’s return, replacing Kamindu Mendis, came alongside the omission of Mohammed Shami and Nitish Kumar Reddy, as SRH captain Pat Cummins sought fresh momentum. “Sachin’s experience and calmness are invaluable,” Cummins said, praising Baby’s domestic form. However, Baby’s journey pales in comparison to others on the IPL’s comeback list. Harpreet Singh Bhatia tops it, returning for Punjab Kings in 2023 after 3,981 days since his 2012 stint with Pune Warriors. Matthew Wade follows, bridging a 3,962-day gap between Delhi Capitals (2012) and Gujarat Titans (2022). Wayne Parnell (3,242 days), Rilee Rossouw (2,899 days), and Colin Ingram (2,019 days) complete the top five, each defying time to reclaim their IPL stage.

For Baby, the emotional weight of returning to the IPL was palpable. “It’s a dream to be back,” he shared, reflecting on his grind in domestic cricket. SRH’s do-or-die encounter against a faltering Delhi Capitals, who have lost three of their last four games, offered Baby a chance to make an impact. As fans cheered his name, the match underscored the IPL’s enduring appeal—where perseverance and talent can reignite careers after years in the shadows.

With SRH’s bowlers, led by Cummins, dominating early, Baby’s return added a heartfelt narrative to a high-stakes evening, proving that in the IPL, second chances can spark unforgettable stories.