LSG seek Wanindu Hasaranga’s replacement ahead of IPL 2026 clash vs GT
The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) has confirmed the absence of Wanindu Hasaranga in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and a potential replacement in 24-48 hours of the spinner.
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The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) enjoyed a fairytale last-ball victory in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. It was possible only because of the exciting and unbeaten knock of 54 runs by their number seven batter, Mukul Choudhary.
However, during the second innings, their director of cricket, Tom Moody, revealed that they had been trying to find different options for number seven heading deep into the competition. They bought Wanindu Hasaranga during the auction in December, but the Sri Lankan spinner won’t turn up for the franchise.
LSG confirms Wanindu Hasaranga’s unavailability in IPL 2026
Moody reckoned that they would name a replacement in the next 24 to 48 hours. Wanindu Hasaranga’s unavailability has troubled the balance of the side in their lower order. It’s always an advantage to have a spinner who can provide a few overs and show his power with the bat in the lower order.
“We are preparing for the fact that he isn't going to be able to join us. We are looking at replacements that should be announced in 24-48 hours.” Moody said during the clash against KKR.
Hasaranga has been out of action since tearing his left hamstring during Sri Lanka’s opening fixture of the T20 World Cup 2026 against Ireland. It was reported that he hadn’t taken the mandatory fitness tests under SLC’s observation, which was a mandate to get the NOC and join the IPL.
LSG signed the spinner for INR 2 crore. He was part of the Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) side from 2021 to 2023 before joining Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Despite his absence, Lucknow has been impressive in the spin department, using M Siddharth, Shahbaz Ahmed, and Digvesh Rathi.
George Linde likely to replace Hasaranga for LSG
It has been considered that the South African left-arm spinner, George Linde, would replace Hasaranga for Lucknow. His last T20I was the bilateral series against New Zealand, where he picked up only one wicket in four innings.
Linde, who posted a picture in the airport on his Instagram to put green light in the suspension, has featured in the T20 World Cup and also been part of the franchise leagues like SA20, Major League Cricket, and the PSL in the last 12 months. He has taken 218 wickets in 250 T20s at a superb economy rate of just 7.42.
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