Josh Inglis arrives in India, set to bolster Lucknow Super Giants against Mumbai Indians

Key facts

• Josh Inglis has landed in Mumbai and is available for selection for LSG's May 4 match against MI.
• Inglis was signed by LSG for INR 8.6 crore after being released by PBKS due to his wedding.
• He scored 52 runs off 34 balls against Jasprit Bumrah across two matches, including 20 in one over in Qualifier 2.
• Inglis has 278 runs in 11 IPL innings at a strike rate of 162.57.
• LSG and MI are tied with two wins from eight matches, occupying the bottom of the points table.
• Matthew Breetzke has left LSG for personal reasons and returned to South Africa.

Inglis ends uncertainty, joins LSG in Mumbai

Josh Inglis has finally arrived in India, putting an end to weeks of speculation about his availability for the Indian Premier League season. The Australian wicketkeeper-batter landed in Mumbai and is set to be available for selection when Lucknow Super Giants face Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on May 4. Inglis’s delayed arrival had become a major talking point after conflicting reports emerged about his participation. He had earlier declined retention from Punjab Kings, citing limited availability due to personal reasons, a move that drew criticism from a franchise co-owner who termed it “unprofessional.”

A controversial journey from PBKS to LSG

Inglis was originally signed by Punjab Kings for INR 2.6 crore but was released ahead of the IPL 2026 auction because of his wedding. He was then picked up by Lucknow Super Giants for INR 8.6 crore, with initial expectations that he would join the squad earlier than he eventually did. His wedding took place on April 18 in Margaret River, Western Australia. The delay in his arrival sparked debate, but Inglis is now in India and has already begun training with the LSG squad at the Wankhede Stadium.

Crucial timing as LSG and MI languish at the bottom

Inglis’s arrival comes at a critical juncture for Lucknow Super Giants, who are struggling near the bottom of the points table with just two wins from eight matches. Mumbai Indians share the same record, making Monday’s clash a high-stakes encounter for both sides. LSG face a demanding week ahead, with three matches in quick succession: against Mumbai Indians on Monday in Mumbai, Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Thursday in Lucknow, and Chennai Super Kings on Sunday in Chennai. Inglis’s presence could provide a much-needed boost as the team looks to revive its campaign.

Inglis’s track record against Bumrah adds intrigue

One of the most compelling subplots of the upcoming match is Inglis’s past success against Jasprit Bumrah. The 31-year-old has scored 52 runs off 34 deliveries against the premier pacer across two matches, including a memorable assault during Qualifier 2 of IPL 2025, where he smashed 20 runs in a single over. His ability to take on Bumrah could prove vital for LSG as they face a Mumbai attack led by the India star. Inglis’s overall IPL record is impressive: in 11 matches, he has scored 278 runs at a strike rate of over 162, including one half-century.

Breetzke departs; LSG squad reshuffles

South African batter Matthew Breetzke, who was part of LSG, has left the tournament for personal reasons and returned to South Africa. He departed before the April 26 game against Kolkata Knight Riders, which went down to a super over. Breetzke’s departure opens a slot in the squad, and Inglis’s arrival fills the wicketkeeper-batter role. The LSG squad now includes Inglis alongside players like Rishabh Pant, Nicholas Pooran, and Mitchell Marsh.

What lies ahead for Inglis and LSG

Inglis is expected to train with the LSG squad on Saturday evening before the Monday clash. His immediate availability gives head coach Justin Langer and captain Rishabh Pant a new option in the middle order. With LSG and MI both desperate for a win, Inglis’s debut for his new franchise could be a defining moment in their season. The team will hope his experience and aggressive batting can help turn their fortunes around.

The bottom line

• Josh Inglis has joined LSG after a delayed arrival, ending speculation over his IPL availability.
• He was signed for INR 8.6 crore after being released by PBKS due to his wedding.
• Inglis has a strong record against Jasprit Bumrah, scoring 52 runs off 34 balls in two matches.
• LSG and MI are tied at the bottom with two wins from eight matches, making Monday's game crucial.
• Matthew Breetzke has left LSG for personal reasons, returning to South Africa.
• LSG face a demanding week with three matches in six days.