IPL 2026: LSG sign George Linde as replacement for injured Wanindu Hasaranga

NEW DELHI: Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have signed South Africa batting all-rounder George Linde as a replacement for Sri Lanka leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga for the remainder of IPL 2026, the tournament organizers announced on Friday.

"Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have signed Protea all-rounder George Linde as a replacement for Wanindu Hasaranga, who has been ruled out of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026," an official IPL media advisory stated.

Hasaranga, who was acquired by LSG for Rs 2 crore during the player auction held in Abu Dhabi last year, has been ruled out of the ongoing tournament due to a hamstring injury sustained during Sri Lanka’s opening fixture of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

"We are preparing for the fact that he isn't going to be able to join us. We are looking at replacements, that should be announced in 24-48 hours,” LSG’s Director of Cricket Tom Moody had said during the game at the Eden Gardens on Thursday, which LSG won by three wickets on the last ball.