Lucknow Super Giants’ (LSG) batters have struggled in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. None of their batters have been in contention for the orange cap. The batting failures have led to LSG dropping to ninth position on the points table with four losses from six games. Nicholas Pooran has been the weakest link, scoring just 51 runs from six innings. The clock is ticking for Pooran as LSG’s overseas recruit, Josh Inglis, is set to arrive before their May 4 clash against Mumbai Indians (MI).
Why Inglis missed 1st half of IPL 2026?
It was pre-decided that Inglis will join LSG for only few league stage games. Despite the Australian wicketkeeper-batter’s partial availability, he was roped in by LSG for Rs 8.6 crore.
Inglis missed the initial part as he got married on April 18. After spending a few more weeks away from the field, he will jump back into the action. He will be available for six league stage games of LSG.
Pooran left with 2 chances
Inglis’ return means that time is running out for Pooran to show his mettle. LSG's next game is against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on April 22 at home. Then, they will host Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on April 26. It will be followed by a long break for LSG. During this time, Inglis will join the camp.
Another Pooran replacement waiting on the bench
In the next two games, if LSG management moves on from Pooran, they have the option of roping in South Africa’s wicketkeeper-batter Matthew Breetzke. The 27-year-old hasn't had much success in T20Is with just one fifty from 13 appearances. However, he showed promise in the ODI series against India. In the previous season, he got just one chance and scored 14 runs from 12 balls.
Inglis’ IPL record
He made his IPL debut for Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the previous season. From 11 games, he scored 278 runs at an average of 30.88 and strike rate of 162.57. He scored one fifty in the season.