Wanindu Hasaranga RULED out of IPL 2026; Replacement to be named on THIS day
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Wanindu Hasaranga’s absence comes as a major setback for LSG amid their IPL 2026 campaign.
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have dealt a major blow during the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 as star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga has officially been ruled out of the tournament. The confirmation came from LSG’s Global Director of Cricket, Tom Moody, who made the news public during game against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on April 9.
Wanindu Hasaranga, who was expected to play a key role in LSG‘s bowling attack, didn’t join the squad till the KKR game, raising concerns over his availability. His absence from the LSG squad is said to be related to his ongoing fitness issues as well as issues regarding his clearance from Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC).
Hasaranga was roped in by LSG during the IPL 2026 auction based on the idea that his leg spin bowling and ability to hit in the lower order would give better balance to the team. With Hasaranga now confirmed out of the IPL 2026, LSG will have to revisit their combination.
LSG to name replacement for Wanindu Hasaranga in next 24-48 hours
Tom Moody said that LSG is currently working on finalising a replacement and that an announcement is expected within the next 24-48 hours.
The absence of Hasaranga is a huge blow to LSG as he is regarded as one of the best T20 wicket-taking spinners. LSG will hope that their replacement will be able to fill the gap left by Hasaranga so they can remain competitive during 2026 IPL.
LSG’s spinners are struggling this season, and Hasaranga’s absence no doubt will leave a massive void as not only does he provide a significant amount of quality with respect to depth in the bowling department, but he also provides depth in the batting department.
If LSG are not able to replace Hasaranga with another overseas player of equal quality, they will be stuck with few, if any, players capable of providing them with reliable spin options.
The Rishabh Pant-led side are currently placed fifth on points table with two wins under their belt. They registered a thrilling win over KKR in their last game by 3 wickets, thanks to the masterclass by Mukul Choudhary.
Why has Wanindu Hasaranga been ruled out of IPL 2026?
Hasaranga has been ruled out due to ongoing fitness issues and complications related to clearance from Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC).
When will Lucknow Super Giants announce Wanindu Hasaranga’s replacement?
LSG’s Global Director of Cricket, Tom Moody, has confirmed that the franchise is working on finalising a replacement and is expected to announce within the next 24–48 hours.
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Anubha Anandita Pathak is a sports enthusiast with a strong passion for cricket and basketball, shaped by her experience as a district-level basketball and kabaddi player. A loyal Golden State Warriors supporter, she closely follows Stephen Curry’s style of play. With on-ground reporting experience covering the Indian Super League and Karnataka’s hockey circuit, Anubha brings both perspective and passion to her storytelling.