Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) were involved in a massive bidding for Josh Inglis at the IPL 2026 auction, with the Rishabh Pant-led franchise buying the player for INR 8.6 crore. He was released by the Punjab Kings ahead of the auction process. It was revealed that the wicket-keeper batter was available for four matches in the upcoming season due to his wedding.
It was assumed that Lucknow purchased the Aussie star for the 20th season of the league. However, it has now emerged that LSG and SRH had more information on Josh’s chances of competing in more games. Justin Langer and Tom Moody are associated with Lucknow whole Daniel Vettori, who works with Australia’s national team, is coaching Sunrisers. Meanwhile, Punjab head coach Ricky Ponting was unaware about the new development.
Josh Inglis to delay his Honeymoon
A report by Cricbuzz has revealed that Inglis is likely to change his plans. He is getting married on 18th April but will delay his honeymoon to join Lucknow immediately post the wedding. Earlier, he wanted to play only a few games but LSG’s massive bid forced him change his plans.
PBKS are not happy after they agreed to release the player just 45 minutes before the deadline. They are set to approach the Indian Cricket Board regarding the matter. Even the notification by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had claimed that Josh is available for four matches.
Ness Wadia slams Josh Inglis.
PBKS co-owner Ness Wadia lhas slammed the player, calling him unprofessional.
“He informed us at the last minute, which was not fair. We were informed that he was getting married and was going to be available for few games. It is not right to inform someone 45 minutes before about your plans. It is not professional,” Wadia told the Hindu.
“I wish him all the best. He is a good player but his behaviour was not professional,” Wadia added.
Josh Inglis breaks silence
Inglis has confirmed that he is not available for the whole IPL season. He spoke with the broadcaster on Day 2 of the third Ashes Test. However, the 30-year-old didn’t reveal how long he will not be available to play.
“I’m not available for all the matches as I am getting married in early,” he said.
Pay rise for batter
He was purchased by PBKS for Rs. 2.60 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction but will now get Rs. 8.6 crore. In the previous season, he scored 278 runs in 11 innings at a strike-rate of 162.57.