Sanjiv Goenka and LSG squad - (ScreenGrab/AFP)
In a sigifnicant development, Lucknow Super Giants have dealt a massive blow. The Rishabh Pant-led side are hit with a crisis as their international player has left IPL 2026 mid-season.
Notably, LSG are already in trouble with a poor start to the season and now they are a player short after unexpected departure, weaking the bowling department. For the unversed, The Sanjiv Goenka-owned side are placed 8th on the table with just two wins in six matches.
Anrich Nortje Leaves IPL 2026 Midway
Notably, it is Anrich Nortje, who has left IPL 2026 midway. A report from ESPN Cricinfo, mentioned that Nortje left the camp last week and the reason for his departure is unknown.
The fans are assuming that the reason behind his departure could be to be with his wife as the couple is expecting twins. Thus, Nortje might have asked for a paternal leave and return for the later stage of the tournament.
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Talking about his performance, the South Africa international featured in just a solitary match, where he went wicketless and was dropped from the playing XI.
Anrich Nortje Struggling For Form In International Cricket
Talking about Nortje's IPL 2026, he played a solitary match against Delhi Capitals, which was also the first match of LSG in the tournament.
Notably, he registered the figures of 0/39. He leaked too many runs on a brilliant track. Nortje was the reason Delhi Capitals got back in the hunt in that game and eventually sealed the win.
It was not the case in that particular game, but Nortje has been out of scheme of things across formats for a good amount of time now. Even during the T20 World Cup 2026, Nortje played in just two innings, where he picked up three wickets.
In the last two years, Nortje has played just 5 matches across formats and took just three wickets. He has mostly been injured, which has prevented him from returning to his top-potential.
LSG Boosted With Josh Inglis' Return
Despite Anrich Nortje's departure, Lucknow Super Giants have been boosted with the return of Josh Inglis. Notably, fans were surprised to see LSG picking Inglis in the auction as the star batter had conyeved his unavailability for most of the season.
In the latest events, Inglis has tied the knot with his girlfriend and is all set to join LSG's squad from May 4. At present, the Rishabh Pant-led side need to sort where they will fit Josh Inglis in the team.
Notably, Nicholas Pooran is in really bad touch and there are chances that Inglis replaces him in the playing XI if the Caribbean star player doesn't regain his lost mojo in the remaining few matches. LSG will next face RR on April 22.
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