IPL 2026: PBKS owner slams Josh Inglis for 'unprofessional' last-minute update

Punjab Kings co-owner Ness Wadia has publicly criticised Australia wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis, branding his conduct “unprofessional” due to the delayed communication about his availability for the IPL 2026 season.

Wadia revealed that PBKS had strong intentions of retaining Inglis but were caught off guard just before the retention deadline. According to him, the franchise was informed only 45 minutes before the cutoff that the batter would be available for just a brief period, as he is set to get married in early April.

In a recent interaction, Wadia clarified that the problem was never the personal commitment itself, but the timing of the disclosure. He explained that Inglis had been with the franchise for some time and was well aware of the retention schedule. Despite this, the team was informed at the very last moment that he would need time off and could feature for only a couple of weeks in the tournament.

Wadia said the franchise made it clear to Inglis that such late communication was unfair and avoidable. He stressed that when deadlines are known well in advance, informing a team at the eleventh hour especially when a retention was being planned, is not acceptable professional behaviour.

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Despite his criticism, Wadia struck a conciliatory tone toward the end, wishing Inglis success in his career. He acknowledged the Australian batter’s quality and expressed hope that he continues to do well for his national side, adding that his remarks were solely about professionalism and not personal animosity.

Inglis’ restricted availability had already raised eyebrows ahead of the mini-auction. Nevertheless, after initially going unsold, he sparked a bidding contest and was eventually snapped up by Lucknow Super Giants for Rs 8.6 crore. LSG appear to have invested in his long-term value rather than expecting a major contribution during his limited window in IPL 2026.