Josh Inglis enters IPL 2026 as one of the most intriguing overseas picks in LSG's squad. His regressed WAR/M of 0.32 is built entirely on batting, with a batting WAR/M of 0.38 and zero bowling contribution. The model slots him at opener in the optimal XII, though his natural profile is a top-order (#3) batter. That positional flexibility is key to why LSG targets him.

Inglis's SRae of 12 confirms he scores faster than average for the phases he bats in. Across 2258 career T20 balls and 794 recent T20 balls, his 20 batting surplus in IPL 2025 validates the selection.

Role in Optimal XII

The model promotes Inglis to opener because of his middle-overs dominance. Against spin in the middle overs, he strikes at 148 across 380 balls, well above the 129 league average. Against pace in the middle overs, he posts 154 across 376 balls. These numbers account for 32% and 22% of his role justification respectively.

At the death, he strikes at 174 against pace across 100 balls. That above-average death output gives the lineup a batter who can finish an innings if he stays in.

Matchup Profile: Pace vs Spin

Inglis handles both bowling types well, with a slight edge against pace.

Phase	vs Pace	vs Spin
Middle	154 (376b)	148 (380b)
Death	174 (100b)	—

His middle-overs spin-hitting stands out. In a league where most openers struggle against quality spin once the field spreads, Inglis maintains pressure. That skill is particularly valuable paired with Marsh at the other end, creating a top two that can handle both pace and spin through the first 15 overs.

Phase-by-Phase Breakdown

His ball distribution: 45% in the powerplay, and the rest split between middle and death overs. That PP-heavy distribution is standard for an opener.

Powerplay (1-6): Faces 45% of his deliveries here. As an opener, this is where he sets the platform. His PP production needs to be solid rather than spectacular, given that his real value comes in the middle overs.

Middle (7-15): This is where Inglis earns his spot. The dual ability to hit both pace at 154 and spin at 148 means captains cannot easily create favorable matchups against him. He keeps the scoring rate elevated through the toughest phase.

Death (16-20): A 174 SR against pace across 100 balls is above average. He will not bat deep into the death often as an opener, but when he does, he can finish.

Wicketkeeping Flexibility

Inglis is a capable wicketkeeper, giving LSG options. With Pooran also able to keep, LSG can rotate keeping duties or adjust based on workload. This roster flexibility is an underrated asset in squad construction.

Overseas Slot Consideration

Inglis occupies one of LSG's four overseas slots. His 0.32 WAR/M justifies the selection, though he competes with Markram, Pooran, and Marsh for those precious spots. His batting ceiling and keeping ability give him the edge over alternatives.

What This Means for IPL 2026

Inglis provides LSG with a reliable, high-floor opener who can bat through phases. His projected WAR/M of 0.32 and xImpact of 70 project him as a genuine contributor. The partnership with Marsh at the top gives LSG one of the more balanced opening combinations in the IPL, with complementary strengths against different bowling types. The main question is whether he can translate his international and Big Bash form into IPL production, given this will be his first sustained run in the tournament.