IPL 2026 Set for Grand Start, But Injury Concerns Hit Multiple Teams

New Delhi, March 2026 : The 19th edition of the Indian Premier League is all set to begin on March 28, with defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru taking on Sunrisers Hyderabad in the opening match at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. However, just days before the tournament kicks off, several franchises are grappling with injury setbacks and player unavailability, forcing last-minute adjustments to their squads.

The situation has been compounded by the recently concluded ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which has left many players fatigued or recovering from injuries. As a result, teams are likely to begin the season without some of their key performers.

Among the biggest concerns is for Kolkata Knight Riders, who have been hit by multiple setbacks. Fast bowler Harshit Rana is expected to miss the entire season due to a knee injury that had already ruled him out of the T20 World Cup. Adding to their woes, pacer Akash Deep has also been sidelined for the tournament with a lower back stress injury, prompting the franchise to bring in Saurabh Dubey as a replacement. Meanwhile, Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana is still awaiting clearance after a shoulder injury curtailed his World Cup campaign.

Sunrisers Hyderabad are also dealing with key absences. Their captain Pat Cummins is recovering from a lumbar stress injury and is likely to miss the initial matches, with Ishan Kishan stepping in as stand-in captain. Australian all-rounder Jack Edwards has been ruled out for the entire season due to a foot injury, and the team has signed David Payne as his replacement.

For Rajasthan Royals, the absence of experienced all-rounder Sam Curran is a significant blow. Curran has been ruled out due to a groin injury sustained after England’s World Cup campaign. The franchise has named former Sri Lankan captain Dasun Shanaka as his replacement.

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru may also start without one of their key bowlers, Josh Hazlewood, who is awaiting clearance after recovering from a hamstring injury. Similarly, Chennai Super Kings have suffered a setback with Australian pacer Nathan Ellis ruled out due to a hamstring injury.

The pace attack of Delhi Capitals will also be affected, as Mitchell Starc is yet to receive clearance, with his workload being carefully managed. Meanwhile, Punjab Kings will be without Lockie Ferguson in the early stages, as the pacer has opted to spend time with his family following the birth of his child.

Lucknow Super Giants are also facing uncertainty regarding player availability. Wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis will miss part of the season due to personal commitments, including his wedding, while spinner Wanindu Hasaranga is still recovering from a hamstring injury and awaiting clearance from Sri Lanka Cricket.

With multiple teams impacted by injuries and scheduling conflicts, IPL 2026 is set to begin under challenging circumstances. Franchises will rely heavily on their bench strength and replacements to maintain competitiveness in the early stages of the tournament.

Despite these hurdles, excitement remains high as fans gear up for another thrilling season of the IPL, where unexpected performances and emerging talents often redefine the course of the competition.