Josh Inglis lands in Mumbai, set to debut for Lucknow Super Giants against Mumbai Indians

Key facts

• Josh Inglis arrived in Mumbai on May 2, 2026, 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, who had retained him for INR 2.6 crore.
• He has scored 52 runs off 34 balls against Jasprit Bumrah across two matches, including 20 runs in one over in Qualifier 2 of IPL 2025.
• Inglis has played 11 IPL matches, scoring 278 runs at a strike rate of 162.57, with one half-century.
• LSG and MI are both at the bottom of the points table with two wins from eight matches.
• Matthew Breetzke left the LSG squad for personal reasons before the April 26 game against KKR.
• Inglis married on April 18 in Margaret River, Western Australia, which delayed his arrival.

Inglis arrives, ending speculation over IPL availability

Josh Inglis has finally landed in Mumbai, putting an end to weeks of uncertainty surrounding his participation in the Indian Premier League. The Australian wicketkeeper-batter 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 availability. 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.” Previously signed by PBKS for INR 2.6 crore, Inglis was picked up by LSG for INR 8.6 crore at the auction, with expectations of an earlier arrival that ultimately did not materialise. His wedding took place on April 18 in Margaret River, Western Australia, which contributed to the delay.

Crucial timing for struggling LSG

Inglis’s arrival comes at a critical juncture for Lucknow Super Giants, who are languishing near the bottom of the points table with just two wins from eight matches. They are level on points with Mumbai Indians, their opponents on Monday, making the encounter a must-win for both sides to keep their playoff hopes alive. LSG have made three changes to their playing XI for this match, with Inglis coming straight into the side, a debut handed to Akshat Raghuwanshi, and adjustments in the bowling combination. The team is clearly looking to shake things up after a disappointing run. South African batter Matthew Breetzke, who was part of LSG, has left the tournament for personal reasons, opening up a spot in the overseas lineup. Breetzke had left the squad before the April 26 game against Kolkata Knight Riders, which went down to a super over.

Inglis’s record against Bumrah adds intrigue

Inglis’s track record against Jasprit Bumrah adds an intriguing layer to the contest. 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 presence could provide LSG with a much-needed boost against a Bumrah-led Mumbai attack. In his IPL career so far, Inglis has featured in 11 matches, scoring 278 runs at a strike rate of over 162, including one half-century. Inglis is expected to join training with the LSG squad at the Wankhede on Saturday evening, slotting straight into the middle order alongside Rishabh Pant and Nicholas Pooran.

Mumbai Indians also make key changes

Mumbai Indians have also made notable changes for this crucial clash. Regular skipper Hardik Pandya missed out due to fitness concerns, with Suryakumar Yadav leading the side in his absence. Rohit Sharma returned to the setup, and Corbin Bosch was brought into the XI in place of Trent Boult. Both teams are fighting to stay alive in the playoff race, with the match beginning at 7:30 PM IST after Mumbai won the toss and opted to bowl first. The pressure is on for both sides to turn around their campaigns.

Upcoming fixtures and outlook

In the coming week, LSG face a demanding three-match stretch: against Mumbai Indians on Monday in Mumbai, Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Thursday in Lucknow, and Chennai Super Kings on Sunday in Chennai. These fixtures will be crucial for their playoff aspirations. Inglis’s inclusion is expected to strengthen LSG’s batting lineup, which has struggled with consistency this season. His ability to play both anchor and finisher roles could be vital in the middle order. Meanwhile, Azmatullah Omarzai is set to rejoin the Punjab Kings squad on May 7 after returning home following the demise of his mother. The team paid tribute by wearing black armbands during their home game against Rajasthan Royals on April 28.

The bottom line

• Josh Inglis has joined LSG after a delayed arrival due to his wedding, ending speculation over his IPL 2026 availability.
• He was signed for INR 8.6 crore after being released by PBKS, who had retained him for INR 2.6 crore.
• Inglis has a strong record against Jasprit Bumrah, scoring 52 runs off 34 balls, including 20 in one over in IPL 2025 Qualifier 2.
• LSG and MI are both at the bottom of the table with two wins from eight matches, making their May 4 clash a must-win.
• Matthew Breetzke has left the LSG squad for personal reasons, opening a spot for Inglis in the overseas lineup.
• Inglis’s ability to play both anchor and finisher roles could provide stability to LSG’s middle order.