Lucknow Super Giants Face Setback as Wanindu Hasaranga Exits IPL 2026

Major Setback for LSG

In a significant setback for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga has been officially ruled out of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. This announcement was made by LSG's director of cricket, Tom Moody, during their match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Moody indicated that LSG plans to announce a replacement for the Sri Lankan player within the next 24 to 48 hours. Reports suggest that South African all-rounder George Linde is the leading candidate to fill Hasaranga's spot in the lineup. Hasaranga was acquired by LSG for INR 2 crore during the mini auction but has been unable to join the team due to an injury. Previously, he was part of the Rajasthan Royals and played for Royal Challengers Bengaluru from 2021 to 2023.

“We are preparing for the fact that he isn't going to be able to join us,” Moody stated during the match against KKR in Kolkata on Thursday. “We are looking at replacements that should be announced in 24-48 hours,” he added. Hasaranga sustained his injury during Sri Lanka's opening match of the T20 World Cup 2026 and has been sidelined since. He also missed the Sri Lanka cricket fitness test earlier this week, which is a requirement for obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for IPL 2026.

LSG Triumphs Over KKR

LSG Pulls Off A Miracle Vs KKR

In other news, LSG managed to secure a thrilling victory against Kolkata Knight Riders, thanks to the outstanding performance of Mukul Choudhary. Chasing a target of 182 runs, LSG found themselves in a precarious position, losing seven wickets for just 128 runs in 16 overs. However, Choudhary's remarkable innings of 54 runs off 27 balls led LSG to victory. The team has kicked off IPL 2026 on a positive note, winning two matches and losing one. Prior to their match against KKR, they triumphed over Sunrisers Hyderabad by five wickets but faced defeat against Delhi Capitals in their opening game.