LSG Signs George Linde as Hasaranga Injury Replacement

Lucknow Super Giants have signed South African allrounder George Linde as a replacement for Sri Lankan spinner Wanindu Hasaranga, who has been ruled out of the Indian Premier League 2026 season due to a persistent hamstring injury. The move, announced on April 10, bolsters the franchise's squad ahead of their next match against Gujarat Titans on April 12 at Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow.

Hasaranga, acquired by Lucknow Super Giants for Rs 2 crore during the recent auction, sustained a tear in his left hamstring during Sri Lanka's opening fixture of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup against Ireland on February 8. The 28-year-old has not played competitive cricket since, and reports indicate he did not complete the mandatory fitness test required by Sri Lanka Cricket to obtain a No-Objection Certificate for IPL participation. LSG Director of Cricket Tom Moody confirmed the development during the team's match against Kolkata Knight Riders on April 9, stating, "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."

Linde, a 33-year-old left-handed batter and slow left-arm orthodox bowler, joins...