The build-up to the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season has been impacted by a growing list of player injuries and unavailabilities. Franchises are finalizing their squads with key absences confirmed just days before the tournament's start.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are among the most affected teams. Fast bowler Harshit Rana has been ruled out of the entire season due to a stress fracture, as confirmed by franchise CEO Venky Mysore. Fellow pacer Akash Deep is also sidelined with an injury. However, contrary to some reports, Sri Lankan bowler Matheesha Pathirana is not injured and is available for selection.
Other franchises are also managing absences. Gujarat Titans' wicketkeeper-batter Matthew Wade will miss the initial matches due to personal reasons. Lucknow Super Giants' pacer Shivam Mavi is recovering from a back injury and his availability for the early season is uncertain. These developments force teams to rely more heavily on their squad depth from the opening match.
The IPL 2026 season is scheduled to begin on March 23, with defending champions Chennai Super Kings facing Royal Challengers Bangalore in the opening match. Team managements are working on contingency plans as they aim to navigate the early stages of the tournament without some of their premier players.
