Lucknow Super Giants have bolstered their squad ahead of a critical stage in IPL 2026, with Australian wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis joining the team. The 29-year-old is now available for selection ahead of their upcoming match on May 4 against the Mumbai Indians.
Inglis had postponed his arrival due to personal reasons, having informed franchises about his limited availability prior to the auction. His late arrival was due to his wedding, which took place on April 18 in Margaret River, Western Australia. Despite this delay, Lucknow Super Giants secured his services for INR 8.60 crore after his release by Punjab Kings before the auction.
Inglis has made a positive impression in his previous IPL season, scoring 278 runs in 11 innings with an average of 30.88 and a striking rate of 162.57. These statistics could prove crucial for a team seeking stability in its batting lineup.
The timing of Inglis’s arrival aligns with a challenging period for the franchise. The team, captained by Rishabh Pant, is set to face the Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium, with both sides struggling so far, each recording only two victories. This match is essential for both teams in terms of their standings in the tournament.
However, Lucknow is also navigating an off-field challenge. South African batter Matthew Breetzke has left the team to return home due to a family bereavement. He departed prior to the April 26 match against Kolkata Knight Riders, and it remains unclear if he will return later in the season.
Lucknow’s overseas batting unit has yet to find consistent form, with Nicholas Pooran struggling and Aiden Markram and Mitchell Marsh not replicating their performances from the previous season. The addition of Inglis provides a new option to address these issues.
In the upcoming days, Lucknow will face three matches in quick succession, with the clashes against Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Chennai Super Kings scheduled within the same week following their match against Mumbai.
