Aakash Chopra opens up on LSG’s challenges heading into IPL 2026

Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra has shed light on LSG’s challenges ahead of the IPL 2026. Chopra reckons Australian wicket-keeper bat Josh Inglis will find it difficult to perform the finisher role if he bats at number six or seven.

LSG had roped in Inglis for a whopping amount of INR 8.60 crore in the IPL 2026 mini auction but the right-hander is not going to be available for the entire season. In fact, it was reported that the Australian might be available for only four games.

“What are the weaknesses? Instead of weaknesses, I am looking towards challenges. If Josh Inglis plays in the lower-middle order, it means four overseas batters would play, but Josh Inglis is at his best if you play him in the top four. If you give him the No. 6 or No. 7 role, it’s a difficult role to play,” Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube Channel.

The former KKR batter said LSG lacks experience in the lower-middle order for the upcoming season.

“You see slight problems with players there. Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad and Shahbaz Ahmed are there. They are all good. Badoni’s form is very good, Abdul Samad hits decent sixes, but the experience is not seen in the lower-middle order,” he observed.

Chopra also highlighted the injury concerns in the bowling department for LSG ahead of the 19th season of the tournament.

“There is a huge injury concern among Indian fast bowlers. Mohammad Shami has come and will hopefully remain fit. Mayank Yadav is injury-prone. Then Avesh Khan and Mohsin Khan. Even Anrich Nortje has come back after an injury. The shadow of injuries is inseparable from this team,” he said

The renowned commentator said Wanindu Hasaranga’s potential absence could be a challenge whereas he feels opposition batters will be able to read Digvesh Rathi a bit better than last season.

“They let Ravi Bishnoi go and picked Wanindu Hasaranga in his place. If he is also not there, there could be a challenge in spin. Digvesh Rathi was brilliant, but now, as he plays more, people will start understanding him. So he will have to reinvent himself,” Chopra observed.

LSG will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against the Delhi Capitals on 1st April at Lucknow.