IPL 2026 Josh Inglis Availability Hit by Wedding Plans
Australia wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis has confirmed that he will not be fully available for IPL 2026 after personal commitments related to his wedding. The development comes shortly after Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) secured his services at the IPL mini auction held in Abu Dhabi on December 16. So let’s have a look at IPL 2026 Josh Inglis Availability.
LSG splurged ₹8.60 crore on Inglis despite being aware that the player would only be partially available during the season.
IPL 2026 Josh Inglis Marriage in April Availability
The IPL 2026 season is scheduled from March 26 to May 31, but Inglis revealed that his marriage, set to take place in early April, will prevent him from featuring in most matches for the Rishabh Pant-led side.
Interestingly, the Australian batter admitted he was surprised to be picked at such a high price given his limited availability for the tournament.
Inglis Reacts to Unexpected IPL Auction Outcome
Speaking to ABC Sport, Inglis shared his astonishment at the turn of events during the auction. He revealed that he had initially believed he would go unsold after his name was passed over early.
The 29-year-old said he had gone to bed assuming the auction was over for him, only to wake up to messages informing him that LSG had signed him after a late bidding war.
PBKS’ Change of Plans Before Retention Deadline
Meanwhile, Punjab Kings (PBKS) co-owner Ness Wadia disclosed that the franchise had originally planned to retain Inglis following IPL 2025. However, the decision was reversed just minutes before the retention deadline, leading to his entry into the auction pool.
Inglis had an impressive debut season with PBKS in IPL 2025, scoring 278 runs in 11 matches at a strike rate of 162.57. Despite his strong performances, personal factors played a role in PBKS opting not to retain him.
Ponting’s Early Hint and LSG’s Winning Bid
Former PBKS head coach Ricky Ponting had earlier hinted at Inglis’ partial availability, which possibly influenced retention discussions. During the auction, Inglis initially went unsold before Sunrisers Hyderabad and LSG reignited interest with a competitive bidding battle.
LSG eventually outbid the 2016 champions to secure the Australian star.
Reunion with Justin Langer at LSG
Inglis is set to reunite with Justin Langer at Lucknow Super Giants. The duo previously worked together at Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League, where Langer served as head coach.
Despite his limited availability, LSG appear confident that Inglis’ impact—whenever available—could be crucial in their IPL 2026 campaign.
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