Why did Lockie Ferguson miss CSK vs PBKS clash of IPL 2026?

Lockie Ferguson was also absent from PBKS’ opening game against GT.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) are looking for their second consecutive victory in Indian Premier League 2026 against Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The CSK vs PBKS game got underway on April 1 (Friday) at Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

The Shreyas Iyer & Co. locked horns with Gujarat Titans (GT) in the opening game. They restricted them for 162/6 in the first innings and later chased down the target by three wickets. Cooper Connolly scored an unbeaten half-century to drive the team to victory.

On the other hand, CSK will aim for their first victory of the tournament. They suffered a humiliating defeat against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in their opening game by eight wickets.

In the CSK vs PBKS clash, Punjab won the toss and opted to field first. They missed the services of pacer Lockie Ferguson yet again. He was also absent from the previous game as well.

Why is Lockie Ferguson not part of PBKS’ playing XI vs CSK?

Notably, Ferguson is yet to join the PBKS squad in IPL 2026. He is on paternity leave due to the birth of his child. He had earlier informed that he will miss the initial games and will join the tournament mid-season. He was retained by the franchise for IPL 2026.

Speaking after winning the toss, Shreyas Iyer said, “I’m going to bowl first since it’s their first match on the home ground. I feel the wicket is fresh. It would be a great thing to know how the wicket is going to play. So, based on those, I’ve taken this decision. I feel like that also rubs on into everyone in the team. And when you see such confident and optimistic lads around you, it rubs into myself as well. No, we are going with the same team”.

For more updates, follow Khel Now Cricket on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.