The 2026 season of Indian Premier League has begun on an exciting note, with teams like Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals, and defending champions Royal Challengers Bangalore making strong starts. However, even before the tournament got underway, injuries and availability issues began to impact several squads.
A number of high-profile players have missed matches so far, including some key names from Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings.
Here’s a team-wise look at status of notable absentees:
Chennai Super Kings – MS Dhoni
Dhoni is currently out of the playing XI due to injury but is expected to return later in the tournament.
Kolkata Knight Riders – Harshit Rana, Akash Deep, Matheesha Pathirana
KKR have been hit the hardest. Harshit Rana and Akash Deep are ruled out for the entire season, while Matheesha Pathirana is yet to receive fitness clearance.
Royal Challengers Bangalore – Josh Hazlewood, Nuwan Thushara, Yash Dayal
Yash Dayal has been ruled out due to personal reasons. Josh Hazlewood is still recovering and will miss the initial matches, while Nuwan Thushara awaits clearance from Sri Lanka Cricket.
Rajasthan Royals – Sam Curran
All-rounder Sam Curran has been ruled out of IPL 2026 with a groin injury and has been replaced by Dasun Shanaka.
Delhi Capitals – Mitchell Starc, Ben Duckett
Mitchell Starc is recovering from shoulder and elbow injuries and will miss early games. Ben Duckett opted out of the tournament.
Mumbai Indians – Hardik Pandya, Atharva Ankolekar
Hardik Pandya missed a match due to illness, while Atharva Ankolekar has been ruled out with a knee injury.
Gujarat Titans – Ishant Sharma
Despite being available, Ishant Sharma has not yet featured in the playing XI, highlighting the team’s strong bench strength.
Punjab Kings – Lockie Ferguson, Glenn Maxwell
Glenn Maxwell withdrew before the auction, while Lockie Ferguson is unavailable for the initial matches.
Sunrisers Hyderabad – Pat Cummins
Regular captain Pat Cummins is still recovering from injury, with Ishan Kishan stepping in as stand-in captain.
Lucknow Super Giants – Wanindu Hasaranga, Josh Inglis, Mayank Yadav
Wanindu Hasaranga remains sidelined due to fitness concerns, and Mayank Yadav, despite being fit, has not featured yet. Josh Inglis is expected to join the squad later in the tournament.
