Punjab Kings will begin their IPL 2026 journey without one of their key fast bowlers, Lockie Ferguson, who is set to miss the opening phase of the tournament.
The New Zealand pacer will not be available for the first seven league matches, as he has chosen to stay back home for personal reasons. While his absence will impact the team’s bowling plans early on, the reason behind his break is a special moment in his personal life.
Lockie Ferguson to Miss First Seven Games
Lockie Ferguson’s unavailability for the initial matches has been confirmed ahead of the season. An IPL source stated, “He is not available for the first seven games,” making it clear that Punjab Kings will have to start their campaign without him.
This comes after a limited appearance in the previous season as well. Ferguson could only play four matches for Punjab Kings last year due to a hamstring injury. Despite that setback, the team had a strong run and managed to reach their first IPL final since 2014.
His absence this time is not due to injury but a planned break, which means PBKS will need to adjust their bowling strategy in the early part of IPL 2026.
Also Read: Starc Added to List of Players Missing IPL 2026 Matches
Ferguson Prioritises Family Time
The New Zealand pacer has taken this break to spend time with his family after the birth of his first child. Speaking ahead of New Zealand’s third T20I against South Africa in Auckland, Ferguson shared his thoughts.
“Just had a wee son, trying to spend as much time as I can at home and help the wife out. I’ll have a few weeks off after this, before sort of heading to the later stages of the IPL and away for the winter,” he said.
His decision highlights how players are increasingly balancing professional commitments with personal life moments. While PBKS will miss his pace early on, Ferguson is expected to join later in the season.
Possible Replacement Options PBKS Can Consider
While there is no official replacement announced for IPL 2026, there are a few players who have previously been seen as suitable options to fill in for Lockie Ferguson.
Jason Behrendorff is one such option. The Australian left-arm pacer has IPL experience, having played 17 matches and taken 19 wickets. He was part of Mumbai Indians in IPL 2024 but missed the tournament due to injury.
Umesh Yadav is another experienced choice. The Indian pacer has played 148 IPL matches and picked up 144 wickets. He has represented multiple franchises including Delhi, RCB, KKR, and Gujarat Titans, bringing valuable experience to any bowling lineup.
Mustafizur Rahman could also be considered. The Bangladeshi left-arm pacer has taken 61 wickets in 57 IPL matches and has played for teams like Chennai Super Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Rajasthan Royals, Mumbai Indians, and Delhi Capitals.
These options show that PBKS have experienced replacements to consider if they look to strengthen their pace attack during Ferguson’s absence.
This comes at a time when multiple teams are dealing with player absences, including Sam Curran missing IPL 2026 due to injury.
