Prime Highlights:
- Australian wicketkeeper-batsman Josh Inglis was sold to Lucknow Super Giants for ₹8.6 crore despite being available for only four matches.
- LSG showed confidence in Inglis’s ability to deliver match-winning performances in the early stage of IPL 2026.
Key Facts:
- Inglis’ sale price far exceeded his base price of ₹2 crore, making him one of the biggest surprises of the mini-auction.
- Known for his clean hitting, quick scoring, and versatility in the middle order, Inglis is expected to have an immediate impact.
Background:
The IPL 2026 mini-auction saw a major surprise on Tuesday as Australian wicketkeeper-batsman Josh Inglis was sold to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for a huge ₹8.6 crore, even though he will play only four matches.
Inglis, who had a base price of ₹2 crore, triggered a fierce bidding war that exceeded all expectations. Ahead of the auction, the Australian had informed franchises that his participation in IPL 2026 would be limited due to a personal commitment, his wedding during the season. Such restricted availability usually discourages franchises, but that was far from the case here.
Multiple teams showed interest in the explosive T20 batter, underlining how highly his abilities are rated across the league. Punjab Kings, who had benefited from Inglis’ contributions in the previous season, opted not to retain him and eventually stepped away from the bidding. Lucknow Super Giants went all out to secure Josh Inglis despite his limited availability.
LSG’s decision reflects their trust in Inglis’s capacity to influence the game right away. Being a big-hitter, fast scorer, and adaptable to the middle order, he is basically the first one to be confirmed for the upcoming games of the tournament.
By investing heavily in a player for just four games, LSG has sent a clear message: quality over quantity. The franchise will be hoping that Inglis’ firepower helps them gain early momentum before he departs mid-season.
The deal has quickly become one of the most talked-about stories of the IPL 2026 auction, reinforcing a familiar IPL truth: even a handful of games from a world-class performer can be worth crores.
