George Linde is set to join Lucknow Super Giants for the remainder of IPL 2026, replacing Wanindu Hasaranga, who has been ruled out due to fitness issues.
George Linde joins LSG as Hasaranga ruled out of IPL 2026
The development was confirmed after team management assessed multiple options. Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Liam Dawson were also considered, but LSG opted for Linde as a like-for-like spin-bowling all-rounder. Earlier, coach Tom Moody had indicated that Hasaranga had not recovered in time to take further part in the tournament.
Late win lifts LSG
The squad update comes a day after LSG secured a last-over win in a tight contest. Ayush Badoni played a key role with a composed half-century, guiding the chase under pressure. Later half support from 21-year-old Mukul Choudhary, who struck a quick fifty, including six sixes, to keep the side in the game.
Linde’s addition gives LSG a left-arm spin option along with lower-order batting depth. His ability to contribute in both departments is expected to help balance the side, especially on slower surfaces.
LSG will next play on Sunday, April 12, against GT in an afternoon fixture at the Ekana Cricket Stadium. With two wins on the bounce, the team looks settled and will aim to build on the momentum.
Squad – Rishabh Pant (c & wk), Aiden Markram, Mitchell Marsh, Nicholas Pooran, Abdul Samad, Mukul Choudhary, Manimaran Siddharth, Avesh Khan, Mohammed Shami, Digvesh Singh Rathi, Prince Yadav, Ayush Badoni, Matthew Breetzke, Shahbaz Ahmed, Mayank Prabhu Yadav, Himmat Singh, Anrich Nortje, Akshat Raghuwanshi, Josh Inglis, Naman Tiwari, Arshin Kulkarni, Akash Maharaj Singh, Arjun Tendulkar, Mohsin Khan, George Linde..