IPL 2026 Auction: LSG Sign Josh Inglis for Rs 8.6 Crore Amid Limited Availability

Australian wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis was acquired by Lucknow Super Giants for Rs 8.6 crore in the IPL 2026 mini-auction, despite his declared limited availability due to upcoming wedding plans. The 30-year-old, previously with Punjab Kings, sparked an intense bidding war between LSG and Sunrisers Hyderabad after initially going unsold, with LSG ultimately securing him at more than four times his base price of Rs 2 crore.

Inglis had informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that he would be available for only about 25 percent of the season, roughly four matches, as his wedding is scheduled for April 18, 2026. The IPL 2026 is set to run from March 26 to May 31, meaning he would miss the early stages if adhering to original plans for a post-wedding honeymoon. Punjab Kings released him ahead of the auction after he communicated restricted participation just before the retention deadline.

A report from Cricbuzz suggests the substantial bid may prompt Inglis to adjust his plans, potentially postponing the honeymoon to join LSG duties sooner. Sources indicate he could arrive at the season's start, depart briefly for the wedding, and return afterward. Sunrisers Hyderabad bowling coach Varun Aaron noted that personal plans can change post-auction, hinting at possible persuasion from franchises with strong Australian connections.

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Punjab Kings co-owner Ness Wadia expressed frustration, describing Inglis' last-minute notification—45 minutes before the deadline—as unprofessional. Wadia emphasized that the franchise had planned to retain the player, who contributed significantly in the previous season with 278 runs in 11 matches at a strike rate of 162.57. He stressed the issue was timing rather than the wedding itself.

Inglis himself confirmed partial availability in post-auction comments, stating he did not expect to be picked due to his early April marriage. LSG, reuniting him with coach Justin Langer from their shared Big Bash history, appears to value his explosive batting despite the constraints.

The situation has raised questions about player-franchise communication and availability declarations in IPL auctions. While Inglis' exact participation remains unclear, the high investment underscores franchises' confidence in his impact, even if limited.

Also Read: Josh Inglis Tells BCCI He Can Feature in Only 25% of IPL 2026 Before Auction