Lucknow Super Giants are preparing to replace injured Sri Lankan legspinner Wanindu Hasaranga, with director of cricket Tom Moody confirming that a new player will be announced within the next 24 to 48 hours.
Hasaranga has been sidelined since suffering a left hamstring injury during ICC Men’s T20 World Cup earlier this year. He has also reportedly not completed the required fitness tests under Sri Lanka Cricket guidelines, which are necessary to receive clearance (NOC) to participate in the IPL.
According to reports, South African left-arm spinner George Linde is the frontrunner to replace him. Linde, who is yet to make his IPL debut, has been active in various T20 leagues around the world, including SA20, The Hundred, Major League Cricket, and the PSL. He brings significant experience, having taken 218 wickets in 250 T20 matches with a solid economy rate of 7.42.
LSG had signed Hasaranga for INR 2 crore in the last auction, but he was unable to join the squad due to his injury. Previously, he represented Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in earlier seasons.
Despite missing a key player, LSG’s bowling unit has performed strongly in IPL 2026. Their spin department includes players like Digvesh Rathi, M Siddharth, and Shahbaz Ahmed, who have stepped up effectively. However, the team is also monitoring the fitness of fast bowler Mohsin Khan, who has been dealing with stiffness after the opening match.
Overall, LSG remain confident as they look to finalize a suitable replacement soon.
