LSG Set to Replace Wanindu Hasaranga Amid Injury Blow

Lucknow Super Giants are preparing to replace Wanindu Hasaranga in IPL 2026, with director of cricket Tom Moody confirming a decision will be made within 24 to 48 hours.

Wanindu Hasaranga replacement move comes after the Sri Lankan leg spinner was ruled out due to a left hamstring injury, which he sustained during Sri Lanka’s opening match of the T20 World Cup in February.

Moody confirms replacement plans

Speaking during LSG’s match against Kolkata Knight Riders in Kolkata, Moody indicated the franchise is already moving forward without Hasaranga.

“We are preparing for the fact that he isn’t going to be able to join us,” Moody said. “We are looking at replacements, that should be announced in 24-48 hours.”

South Africa’s left-arm spinner George Linde, who is yet to feature in the IPL, is expected to be named as the replacement.

Hasaranga’s absence explained

Hasaranga has not played since suffering a hamstring tear and had also not completed the mandatory fitness tests under Sri Lanka Cricket’s observation, which were required to obtain a no-objection certificate (NOC) for IPL participation.

LSG had signed him for INR 2 crore (approximately US$222,000) at the auction, but the injury prevented him from joining the squad. He previously represented Rajasthan Royals last season and Royal Challengers Bengaluru from 2021 to 2023.

LSG coping despite setbacks

Despite missing Hasaranga, LSG have delivered strong bowling performances in IPL 2026. Their spin attack currently includes Digvesh Rathi, M Siddharth and Shahbaz Ahmed.

The team has also been dealing with another concern, with fast bowler Mohsin Khan sidelined after their opening match due to what Moody described as “stiffness.”

Linde’s recent form and experience

George Linde last featured in a T20 series against New Zealand, where he picked up one wicket across four innings. Over the past 12 months, he has played in multiple franchise leagues including SA20, the Hundred, Major League Cricket, and the PSL.

He brings considerable experience in the format, having taken 218 wickets in 250 T20 matches with an economy rate of 7.42.

Lucknow Super Giants’ decision to replace Hasaranga reflects the importance of squad balance in a long tournament like the IPL. With spin playing a key role, securing a like-for-like option could help maintain their strong bowling performances as the season progresses.

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