IPL 2025: Covid Strikes IPL? Travis Head Tests Positive Ahead Of LSG vs SRH Clash: Report

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Sunrisers Hyderabad have been dealt a late blow ahead of their IPL 2025 fixture against Lucknow Super Giants, with star batter Travis Head reportedly testing positive for Covid-19.

As per reports from Cricbuzz and ESPNcricinfo, SRH head coach Daniel Vettori confirmed on Sunday that Head is set to arrive in India on the morning of the match in Lucknow, with his availability to be decided by the medical team following further assessment.

With SRH already out of the playoff race, Head's absence may not affect their qualification chances, but it's a significant setback nonetheless. The Australian southpaw hasn't quite hit top gear this season, tallying 281 runs from 11 games with two fifties.

Despite a modest average of 28.10 and a strike rate of 156.11, he remains one of Hyderabad's most explosive options at the top. His 2024 season was far more impactful, where he amassed 567 runs at an average of 40.50 and a strike rate nearing 192.

For Lucknow, Head's absence could be a timely boost as they cling to their slim playoff hopes. Currently placed seventh, LSG must win all their remaining matches - and win big - to stand a chance of sneaking into the top four. Their net run rate, however, remains a major obstacle, languishing at -0.469.

If this turns out to be true then it could be a point of concern for the entire league. Because during peak Covid time, the league was postponed and already the league was stalled due to the ongoing cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan.

Meanwhile, all eyes will also be on Rishabh Pant. The LSG skipper, acquired for a staggering ₹27 crore at the previous auction, has endured a horror run with the bat - managing just 128 runs from 11 outings at a strike rate under 100 and an average of 12.80. As pressure mounts, Pant will be eager to turn things around in the business end of the league.

While the match holds little consequence for SRH, it could define LSG's season - and Travis Head's possible absence only adds a fresh twist to this crucial encounter.