Wanindu Hasaranga has been ruled out of the IPL, with Lucknow Super Giants set to announce a replacement within the next 24–48 hours. According to ESPNcricinfo, South Africa’s George Linde is the likely candidate to step in — a move that would mark his first appearance in the IPL.

Director of cricket Tom Moody confirmed the franchise is already preparing for life without Hasaranga during their clash against Kolkata Knight Riders.

Hasaranga has been sidelined since suffering a hamstring tear during Sri Lanka’s opening match of the T20 World Cup in February. His absence continues a frustrating run of injuries, denying fans another chance to see one of Sri Lanka’s premier match-winners on the IPL stage.

LSG had secured Hasaranga for INR 2 crore at the auction, but he never joined the squad due to injury and pending fitness requirements. Despite this setback, the franchise’s bowling unit has held firm — though losing a proven wicket-taker like Hasaranga is never easy.