Cricket is back as fans gear up for the business end of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>, resuming Saturday (May 17) evening. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/royal-challengers-bengaluru" rel="dofollow">Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)</a> hosts <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kolkata-knight-riders" rel="dofollow">Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)</a> in a repeat of the tournament opener in Bengaluru. After being suspended for a week over escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci" rel="dofollow">BCCI</a> resumed the tournament, with M Chinnaswamy staging the first game of the return leg.
The RCB and KKR will face off with plenty on the line. While the RCB sits at the second spot on the points table with 16 points from 11 contested matches, winning eight and losing three thus far, same as table-toppers Gujarat Titans (GT), KKR is languishing at the sixth place, with 11 points from 12 matches. Given their positions on the table, the RCB is well-placed to reach another playoff, this time under a new captain in Rajat Patidar.
On the other hand, KKR must win this game and the next to give themselves any chance of making the last four this year.
<h2>IPL 2025 resumes</h2>
After the Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals game was halted midway last Thursday (May 8) in Dharamsala, dark clouds began hovering over this edition&rsquo;s future, knowing what was happening near the border. Looking at everyone&rsquo;s safety and the prevailing tensions between the two countries, the BCCI suspended it for a week on May 9 (Friday).
Although India and Pakistan &lsquo;agreed to an understanding&rsquo; soon after, the whole episode gripped the foreign contingent with panic, with all leaving for their homes immediately.&nbsp;
After the situation eased out, the Indian Cricket Board released the revised schedule early this week, announcing that IPL 2025 will resume this Saturday and that all teams are requested to assemble their squads by Tuesday (May 13). The IPL 2025 final date also got pushed back to June 3 (Tuesday).&nbsp;
While most teams managed to do it by asking their overseas players to return, plenty decided against returning for several reasons.
<h3>Who is missing RCB-KKR match?</h3>
A few players across both camps decided against returning, including KKR&rsquo;s overseas pair of Moeen Ali and Rovman Powell. RCB seamer Josh Hazlewood also remains unavailable for selection because of a shoulder niggle, while his participation for the remainder of the tournament remains unclear due to international commitments.
However, in a massive boost for the hosts, RCB captain Rajat Patidar recovered from the finger injury he sustained earlier and is available for the side&rsquo;s marquee game against KKR.
<h3>Here are the predicted XIs of both teams &ndash;</h3>
RCB - Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Rajat Patidar (captain), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Lungi Ngidi, Yash Dayal and Suyash Sharma
KKR - Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Sunil Narine, Ajinkya Rahane (captain), Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Manish Pandey, Andre Russell, Rinku Singh, Anukul Roy, Vaibhav Arora, Varun Chakravarthy and Harshit Rana

After being suspended for a week over escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the BCCI resumed the tournament, with RCB hosting KKR in first game of the return leg. Sports, Cricket

Cricket is back as fans gear up for the business end of IPL 2025, resuming Saturday (May 17) evening. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) hosts Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in a repeat of the tournament opener in Bengaluru. After being suspended for a week over escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the BCCI resumed the tournament, with M Chinnaswamy staging the first game of the return leg. The RCB and KKR will face off with plenty on the line. While the RCB sits at the second spot on the points table with 16 points from 11 contested matches, winning eight and losing three thus far, same as table-toppers Gujarat Titans (GT), KKR is languishing at the sixth place, with 11 points from 12 matches. Given their positions on the table, the RCB is well-placed to reach another playoff, this time under a new captain in Rajat Patidar. On the other hand, KKR must win this game and the next to give themselves any chance of making the last four this year. IPL 2025 resumes After the Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals game was halted midway last Thursday (May 8) in Dharamsala, dark clouds began hovering over this edition’s future, knowing what was happening near the border. Looking at everyone’s safety and the prevailing tensions between the two countries, the BCCI suspended it for a week on May 9 (Friday). Although India and Pakistan ‘agreed to an understanding’ soon after, the whole episode gripped the foreign contingent with panic, with all leaving for their homes immediately. After the situation eased out, the Indian Cricket Board released the revised schedule early this week, announcing that IPL 2025 will resume this Saturday and that all teams are requested to assemble their squads by Tuesday (May 13). The IPL 2025 final date also got pushed back to June 3 (Tuesday). While most teams managed to do it by asking their overseas players to return, plenty decided against returning for several reasons. Who is missing RCB-KKR match? A few players across both camps decided against returning, including KKR’s overseas pair of Moeen Ali and Rovman Powell. RCB seamer Josh Hazlewood also remains unavailable for selection because of a shoulder niggle, while his participation for the remainder of the tournament remains unclear due to international commitments. However, in a massive boost for the hosts, RCB captain Rajat Patidar recovered from the finger injury he sustained earlier and is available for the side’s marquee game against KKR. Here are the predicted XIs of both teams – RCB - Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Rajat Patidar (captain), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Lungi Ngidi, Yash Dayal and Suyash Sharma KKR - Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Sunil Narine, Ajinkya Rahane (captain), Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Manish Pandey, Andre Russell, Rinku Singh, Anukul Roy, Vaibhav Arora, Varun Chakravarthy and Harshit Rana

IPL 2025 gets underway with blockbuster RCB vs KKR in Bengaluru. Here’s what we know

As IPL 2025 resumes, teams are dealing with unavailability of foreign players with some of them having withdrawn due to national duty. Have a look at the players RCB might release after this season as they get new replacements. Sports Photos Cricket

5 Players, including foreigners, RCB might release after IPL 2025 starts post break

As the IPL 2025 comes to its business end, anticipation is at an all-time high. Seven teams are still in contention to make it to the playoffs. As the IPL 2025 resumes after a delay, Royal Challengers Bengaluru take on Kolkata Knight Riders in a bid to resume their race to the play-offs on Saturday (May 17).
Royal Challengers Bengaluru's turnaround has made them genuine title contenders, and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/suresh-raina">Suresh Raina</a> believes this might finally be their year. "They have hit 137 sixes at Chinnaswamy, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a> has been in phenomenal form, and they have beaten CSK both home and away &ndash; that hasn&rsquo;t happened in 17 years. There&rsquo;s something different about them this season," he said. The combination of a fresh leadership setup and a vintage Kohli, playing with freedom, has changed the mood in the dressing room. &ldquo;With the way they are playing, I think the trophy could come to Bangalore,&rdquo; Raina added.
JioStar experts <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sunil-gavaskar">Sunil Gavaskar</a> and Suresh Raina spoke on Star Sports Press Room around the race to the play-offs and resumption of IPL 2025.
One player that has been the gamechanges for the RCB is Krunal Pandya. Sunil Gavaskar lauded him as and called him as a 'thinking cricketer' &ndash; someone who doesn&rsquo;t rely only on turn but uses his awareness of aspects of the game to outplay batters. "He&rsquo;s calm, tactical, and has played a key role, especially in games like the win over KKR at Eden Gardens. This is his best IPL season with the ball."
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sports-ipl-2025-mustafizur-rahman-granted-noc-by-bangladesh-cricket-board-set-to-join-delhi-capitals-9075976">IPL 2025: Mustafizur Rahman granted NOC by Bangladesh Cricket Board, set to join Delhi Capitals</a>
The playoffs race is as tight as ever, with seven teams still in contention. Gujarat leads the table, followed closely by RCB. MI, Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings, KKR, and LSG remain in the hunt, while CSK, SRH, and RR have all been eliminated. With net run rates likely to decide the final positions, teams are expected to play more aggressively in the final overs. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s not a marathon anymore &ndash; it&rsquo;s a 400-meter sprint,&rdquo; said Gavaskar. &ldquo;You&rsquo;ll see sides trying to finish games in 15 or 16 overs to boost their net run rates. The top two spots are gold dust.&rdquo;
<h2>'Hardik is more calmer now'</h2>
Mumbai Indians&rsquo; season has been a story of revival. After a sluggish start, Mumbai have stormed back into contention with six straight wins. Gavaskar observed a notable change in Hardik Pandya&rsquo;s demeanor: &ldquo;He&rsquo;s calmer now. His body language is positive. Even when catches are dropped, you don&rsquo;t see his frustration. That&rsquo;s made a difference in the team&rsquo;s atmosphere.&rdquo;
Punjab Kings have also surprised many with their fearless cricket, led by the Rickey Ponting-Shreyas Iyer duo. Raina credited the environment in the camp: &ldquo;Players like Prabhsimran, Priyansh Arya, and Shashank Singh are playing like seasoned pros. This is their best campaign since 2014.&rdquo;
Weather interruptions in the last couple of weeks have slightly altered the rhythm of the tournament. Gavaskar admitted that extended rain breaks can disrupt a player&rsquo;s momentum. &ldquo;Sometimes a batter is in the zone, and then there&rsquo;s a 30-minute delay. That can affect focus. But it also gives teams like Delhi or MI a chance to mentally regroup. So it&rsquo;s a double-edged sword.&rdquo;
As the 2025 season approaches its end, one emotional subplot has been MS Dhoni&rsquo;s possible farewell. With CSK eliminated, fans are bracing for what could be the final two appearances of &lsquo;Captain Cool&rsquo; in yellow. While Ruturaj Gaikwad has officially taken over the reins, Raina pointed out that Dhoni&rsquo;s influence remains as strong as ever. &ldquo;He might not be the official captain, but every field placement, every bowling change has his fingerprint on it.&rdquo;

Royal Challengers Bengaluru are second in the table with 16 points from 11 matches played so far. The team has won eight matches and lost three | Sports, Cricket

As the IPL 2025 comes to its business end, anticipation is at an all-time high. Seven teams are still in contention to make it to the playoffs. As the IPL 2025 resumes after a delay, Royal Challengers Bengaluru take on Kolkata Knight Riders in a bid to resume their race to the play-offs on Saturday (May 17). Royal Challengers Bengaluru's turnaround has made them genuine title contenders, and Suresh Raina believes this might finally be their year. "They have hit 137 sixes at Chinnaswamy, Virat Kohli has been in phenomenal form, and they have beaten CSK both home and away – that hasn’t happened in 17 years. There’s something different about them this season," he said. The combination of a fresh leadership setup and a vintage Kohli, playing with freedom, has changed the mood in the dressing room. “With the way they are playing, I think the trophy could come to Bangalore,” Raina added. JioStar experts Sunil Gavaskar and Suresh Raina spoke on Star Sports Press Room around the race to the play-offs and resumption of IPL 2025. One player that has been the gamechanges for the RCB is Krunal Pandya. Sunil Gavaskar lauded him as and called him as a 'thinking cricketer' – someone who doesn’t rely only on turn but uses his awareness of aspects of the game to outplay batters. "He’s calm, tactical, and has played a key role, especially in games like the win over KKR at Eden Gardens. This is his best IPL season with the ball." Also Read: IPL 2025: Mustafizur Rahman granted NOC by Bangladesh Cricket Board, set to join Delhi Capitals The playoffs race is as tight as ever, with seven teams still in contention. Gujarat leads the table, followed closely by RCB. MI, Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings, KKR, and LSG remain in the hunt, while CSK, SRH, and RR have all been eliminated. With net run rates likely to decide the final positions, teams are expected to play more aggressively in the final overs. “It’s not a marathon anymore – it’s a 400-meter sprint,” said Gavaskar. “You’ll see sides trying to finish games in 15 or 16 overs to boost their net run rates. The top two spots are gold dust.” 'Hardik is more calmer now' Mumbai Indians’ season has been a story of revival. After a sluggish start, Mumbai have stormed back into contention with six straight wins. Gavaskar observed a notable change in Hardik Pandya’s demeanor: “He’s calmer now. His body language is positive. Even when catches are dropped, you don’t see his frustration. That’s made a difference in the team’s atmosphere.” Punjab Kings have also surprised many with their fearless cricket, led by the Rickey Ponting-Shreyas Iyer duo. Raina credited the environment in the camp: “Players like Prabhsimran, Priyansh Arya, and Shashank Singh are playing like seasoned pros. This is their best campaign since 2014.” Weather interruptions in the last couple of weeks have slightly altered the rhythm of the tournament. Gavaskar admitted that extended rain breaks can disrupt a player’s momentum. “Sometimes a batter is in the zone, and then there’s a 30-minute delay. That can affect focus. But it also gives teams like Delhi or MI a chance to mentally regroup. So it’s a double-edged sword.” As the 2025 season approaches its end, one emotional subplot has been MS Dhoni’s possible farewell. With CSK eliminated, fans are bracing for what could be the final two appearances of ‘Captain Cool’ in yellow. While Ruturaj Gaikwad has officially taken over the reins, Raina pointed out that Dhoni’s influence remains as strong as ever. “He might not be the official captain, but every field placement, every bowling change has his fingerprint on it.”

IPL 2025: 'There is something different about Royal Challengers Bengaluru this season', says former CSK all-rounder

With Indian Premier League (IPL) set to resume on Saturday (May 17), the teams have been hit by the unavailability of foreign players. Cricket Sports Photos

Who's in and who's out - Check list of unavailable foreign players for each team as IPL 2025 nears resumption

Bangladesh speedster Mustafizur Rahman has been granted a Non-Obligation Certificate (NOC) by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to participate in the IPL 2025. If everything goes right, Mustafizur could link up with Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League as a direct replacement for Mitchell Starc. The Australian veteran opted out of the IPL 2025 as of Friday (May 16), with Mustafizur coming in as a replacement.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Mustafizur Rahman granted NOC by BCB</h2>
"As per the decision of BCB Cricket Operations, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to national team pace bowler Mustafizur Rahman for his participation in the ongoing IPL 2025 in India, for the period from 18 - 24 May 2025," BCB said in a statement. "It may also be noted that Mustafizur is available for Bangladesh's first T20 international against the UAE scheduled on 17 May 2025 in Sharjah."
This will be Mustafizur&rsquo;s second spell with Delhi Capitals, having previously played for the side in 2022 and 2023. During that spell, he scalped nine wickets in 10 matches while his overall IPL record reads 61 wickets in 57 matches.
On the other hand, Mitchell Starc&rsquo;s absence for the Delhi Capitals comes as a big blow. He was their star performer in IPL 2025. In 11 matches played in IPL 2025, he scalped 14 wickets and also helped them win a Super Over against the Rajasthan Royals.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-misery-mounts-for-delhi-capitals-as-star-overseas-players-continue-to-opt-out-of-ipl-2025-faf-du-plessis-starc-dc-mustafizur-rahman-9075167" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Misery mounts for Delhi Capitals as star overseas players continue to opt out of IPL 2025</a>
At the time of writing, Delhi Capitals are on 13 points from 11 matches and are firmly in the race to reach the Playoffs. Their head-to-head contest against the Mumbai Indians will be key as it could decide the path for a top four finish.
DC face Gujarat Titans on Sunday (May 18) as the IPL resumes, while they take on Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium next week. Delhi also face Punjab Kings in a rearranged game in Jaipur, which will be another key match for a place in the top four.

Bangladesh speedster Mustafizur Rahman has been granted a Non-Obligation Certificate (NOC) by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to participate in the IPL 2025. India News | Cricket | Sports

Bangladesh speedster Mustafizur Rahman has been granted a Non-Obligation Certificate (NOC) by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to participate in the IPL 2025. If everything goes right, Mustafizur could link up with Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League as a direct replacement for Mitchell Starc. The Australian veteran opted out of the IPL 2025 as of Friday (May 16), with Mustafizur coming in as a replacement. Mustafizur Rahman granted NOC by BCB "As per the decision of BCB Cricket Operations, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to national team pace bowler Mustafizur Rahman for his participation in the ongoing IPL 2025 in India, for the period from 18 - 24 May 2025," BCB said in a statement. "It may also be noted that Mustafizur is available for Bangladesh's first T20 international against the UAE scheduled on 17 May 2025 in Sharjah." This will be Mustafizur’s second spell with Delhi Capitals, having previously played for the side in 2022 and 2023. During that spell, he scalped nine wickets in 10 matches while his overall IPL record reads 61 wickets in 57 matches. On the other hand, Mitchell Starc’s absence for the Delhi Capitals comes as a big blow. He was their star performer in IPL 2025. In 11 matches played in IPL 2025, he scalped 14 wickets and also helped them win a Super Over against the Rajasthan Royals. ALSO READ | Misery mounts for Delhi Capitals as star overseas players continue to opt out of IPL 2025 At the time of writing, Delhi Capitals are on 13 points from 11 matches and are firmly in the race to reach the Playoffs. Their head-to-head contest against the Mumbai Indians will be key as it could decide the path for a top four finish. DC face Gujarat Titans on Sunday (May 18) as the IPL resumes, while they take on Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium next week. Delhi also face Punjab Kings in a rearranged game in Jaipur, which will be another key match for a place in the top four.

IPL 2025: Mustafizur Rahman granted NOC by Bangladesh Cricket Board, set to join Delhi Capitals

With Indian Premier League (IPL) set to resume on Saturday (May 17), the teams have been hit by the unavailability of foreign players. While the league has allowed the teams to name replacement players for their unavailable foreign options, the franchises would still be needed to make new plans with new players - a tough job.
Here's a look the franchise-wise list of foreign players of, available not available or with limited availability for the remainder of the IPL:
Also Read -&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-misery-mounts-for-delhi-capitals-as-star-overseas-players-continue-to-opt-out-of-ipl-2025-faf-du-plessis-starc-dc-mustafizur-rahman-9075167" aria-label="Misery mounts on Delhi Capitals as star overseas players continue to opt out of IPL 2025">Misery mounts on Delhi Capitals as star overseas players continue to opt out of IPL 2025</a>
<h2>Gujarat Titans</h2>
Players available: Jos Buttler (England - available until the league stage ends, to be replacedby Kusal Mendis for the playoffs), Sherfane Rutherford (West Indies), Kagiso Rabada (South Africa - available until the league stage ends), Rashid Khan (AFG), Karim Janat (AFG), Dasun Shanaka (SL), Gerald Coetzee (SA)
<h2>Royal Challengers Bengaluru</h2>
Players available: Romario Shepherd (WI), Phil Salt (ENG), Jacob Bethell (ENG - available only for two league-stage games), Tim David (AUS), Liam Livingstone (ENG), Lungi Ngidi (SA - available until the league stage ends), Nuwan Thushara (SL)
Uncertain players: Josh Hazlewood (AUS)
<h2>Punjab Kings</h2>
Players available: Mitchell Owen (AUS), Azmatullah Omarzai (AFG), Marco Jansen (SA - available until the league stage ends), Xavier Bartlett (AUS), Kyle Jamieson (NZ - temporary replacement for injured Lockie Ferguson)
Uncertain players: Josh Inglis, Marcus Stoinis, Aaron Hardie
<h2>Mumbai Indians</h2>
Players available: Will Jacks (ENG - available until the league stage ends, to be replaced by Jonny Bairstow for the playoffs), Ryan Rickelton (SA - available until the league stage ends, set to be replaced by Richard Gleeson for the playoffs), Bevon Jacobs (NZ), Corbin Bosch (SA - available until the league stage ends), Mitchell Santner (NZ), Trent Boult (NZ), Reece Topley (ENG), Mujeeb Ur Rahman (AFG)
<h2>Delhi Capitals</h2>
Players available: Tristan Stubbs (SA - available until the league stage ends), Faf du Plessis (SA), Dushmantha Chameera (SL), Sediqullah Atal (AFG)
Players not available: Mitchell Starc (AUS), Jake Fraser-McGurk (AUS - replaced by Mustafizur Rahman, who will be available between May 18-24), Donovan Ferreira (SA)
<h2>Kolkata Knight Riders</h2>
Players available: Sunil Narine (WI), Andre Russell (WI), Quinton de Kock (SA), Spencer Johnson (AUS), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (AFG), Anrich Nortje (SA)
Players not available: Moeen Ali (ENG), Rovman Powell (WI)
<h2>Lucknow Super Giants</h2>
Players available: Aiden Markram (SA - available until the league stage ends), Mitchell Marsh (AUS), Nicholas Pooran (WI), David Miller (SA), Matthew Breetzke (SA), Will O'Rourke (NZ - replacement for injured Mayank Yadav)
Players not available: Shamar Joseph (WI)
<h2>Sunrisers Hyderabad</h2>
Players available: Pat Cummins (AUS), Travis Head (AUS), Heinrich Klaasen (SA), Kamindu Mendis (SL), Eshan Malinga (SL)
Players not available: Wiaan Mulder (SA)
<h2>Rajasthan Royals</h2>
Players available: Shimron Hetmyer (WI), Lhuan-dre Pretorius (SA), Fazalhaq Farooqi (AFG), Kwena Maphaka (SA), Wanindu Hasaranga (SL), Maheesh Theekshana (SL)
Players not available: Jofra Archer (ENG), Nandre Burger (SA)
<h2>Chennai Super Kings</h2>
Players available: Noor Ahmad (AFG), Matheesha Pathirana (SL), Dewald Brevis (SA), Devon Conway (NZ)
Players not available: Jamie Overton (ENG), Sam Curran (ENG), Rachin Ravindra (NZ), Nathan Ellis (AUS)

IPL has allowed the teams to name replacement players for their unavailable foreign options, the franchises would still be needed to make new plans with new players. cricket sports

With Indian Premier League (IPL) set to resume on Saturday (May 17), the teams have been hit by the unavailability of foreign players. While the league has allowed the teams to name replacement players for their unavailable foreign options, the franchises would still be needed to make new plans with new players - a tough job. Here's a look the franchise-wise list of foreign players of, available not available or with limited availability for the remainder of the IPL: Also Read - Misery mounts on Delhi Capitals as star overseas players continue to opt out of IPL 2025 Gujarat Titans Players available: Jos Buttler (England - available until the league stage ends, to be replacedby Kusal Mendis for the playoffs), Sherfane Rutherford (West Indies), Kagiso Rabada (South Africa - available until the league stage ends), Rashid Khan (AFG), Karim Janat (AFG), Dasun Shanaka (SL), Gerald Coetzee (SA) Royal Challengers Bengaluru Players available: Romario Shepherd (WI), Phil Salt (ENG), Jacob Bethell (ENG - available only for two league-stage games), Tim David (AUS), Liam Livingstone (ENG), Lungi Ngidi (SA - available until the league stage ends), Nuwan Thushara (SL) Uncertain players: Josh Hazlewood (AUS) Punjab Kings Players available: Mitchell Owen (AUS), Azmatullah Omarzai (AFG), Marco Jansen (SA - available until the league stage ends), Xavier Bartlett (AUS), Kyle Jamieson (NZ - temporary replacement for injured Lockie Ferguson) Uncertain players: Josh Inglis, Marcus Stoinis, Aaron Hardie Mumbai Indians Players available: Will Jacks (ENG - available until the league stage ends, to be replaced by Jonny Bairstow for the playoffs), Ryan Rickelton (SA - available until the league stage ends, set to be replaced by Richard Gleeson for the playoffs), Bevon Jacobs (NZ), Corbin Bosch (SA - available until the league stage ends), Mitchell Santner (NZ), Trent Boult (NZ), Reece Topley (ENG), Mujeeb Ur Rahman (AFG) Delhi Capitals Players available: Tristan Stubbs (SA - available until the league stage ends), Faf du Plessis (SA), Dushmantha Chameera (SL), Sediqullah Atal (AFG) Players not available: Mitchell Starc (AUS), Jake Fraser-McGurk (AUS - replaced by Mustafizur Rahman, who will be available between May 18-24), Donovan Ferreira (SA) Kolkata Knight Riders Players available: Sunil Narine (WI), Andre Russell (WI), Quinton de Kock (SA), Spencer Johnson (AUS), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (AFG), Anrich Nortje (SA) Players not available: Moeen Ali (ENG), Rovman Powell (WI) Lucknow Super Giants Players available: Aiden Markram (SA - available until the league stage ends), Mitchell Marsh (AUS), Nicholas Pooran (WI), David Miller (SA), Matthew Breetzke (SA), Will O'Rourke (NZ - replacement for injured Mayank Yadav) Players not available: Shamar Joseph (WI) Sunrisers Hyderabad Players available: Pat Cummins (AUS), Travis Head (AUS), Heinrich Klaasen (SA), Kamindu Mendis (SL), Eshan Malinga (SL) Players not available: Wiaan Mulder (SA) Rajasthan Royals Players available: Shimron Hetmyer (WI), Lhuan-dre Pretorius (SA), Fazalhaq Farooqi (AFG), Kwena Maphaka (SA), Wanindu Hasaranga (SL), Maheesh Theekshana (SL) Players not available: Jofra Archer (ENG), Nandre Burger (SA) Chennai Super Kings Players available: Noor Ahmad (AFG), Matheesha Pathirana (SL), Dewald Brevis (SA), Devon Conway (NZ) Players not available: Jamie Overton (ENG), Sam Curran (ENG), Rachin Ravindra (NZ), Nathan Ellis (AUS)

IPL 2025: Check team-wise list of unavailable players as season nears resumption

Misery continues to rain on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/delhi-capitals" rel="dofollow">Delhi Capitals (DC)</a> in the Indian Premier League as several overseas players opt out of the ongoing season. After BCCI announced the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> resumption plan, starting this Saturday (May 17) and ending on June 3 (Tuesday) following its suspension, the revised schedule clashed with the international calendar.
Among the boards whose most players featured in IPL 2025, Cricket Australia, Cricket South Africa, the ECB and CWI have their respective matches lined up during or around the IPL 2025 final date, putting plenty of those in a tight spot over abiding national and franchise commitments. However, those not part of any squad picked for the upcoming series have begun opting out due to security concerns.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-mitchell-johnson-slams-bcci-for-forcing-overseas-players-to-play-remainder-of-ipl-2025-psl-indian-board-9074905" rel="dofollow">Mitchell Johnson slams BCCI for &lsquo;forcing&rsquo; overseas players to play remainder of IPL 2025</a>
The list continues to grow, mainly for the Delhi-based franchise.&nbsp;
After Australian seamer <a href="Mitchell%20Starc%20opts%20out%20of%20remainder%20of%20IPL%202025%20as%20Delhi%20Capitals%20resume%20training%20&ndash;%20Report" rel="dofollow">Mitchell Starc decided against playing the remainder of the season</a> to stay fresh for the WTC Final 2025 (against South Africa starting June 11 at Lord&rsquo;s), the South African duo of opener and vice-captain Faf du Plessis and all-rounder Donovan Ferreira followed the same path, not returning for the remainder of IPL 2025.
Opener Jake Fraser-McGurk had said no to returning to India for the tournament, with DC replacing him with Bangladesh seamer Mustafizur Rahman; his participation, however, remains unclear as he is currently in the UAE for the two-match T20Is against the hosts.
Though Rahman could land in India any day beyond May 21, DC batter Tristan Stubbs would depart after May 25 to link up with the South African squad to prepare for the WTC Final 2025.
<h2>More on Aussie players</h2>
On the other hand, several Australian players, including SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) pair Pat Cummins and Travis Head, have decided to rejoin their IPL franchise for the remainder of the tournament.&nbsp;
As SRH is already out of the Playoffs race, both would get free by May 25, having ample time to be ready for the South Africa tie.
While RCB sweats over Josh Hazlewood&rsquo;s availability, who is nursing a shoulder niggle, Punjab Kings gloveman Josh Inglis would not be returning to India. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) opener Mitchell Marsh will be back for the franchise.&nbsp;

DC opener Jake Fraser-McGurk had said no to returning to India for the tournament, with the franchise replacing him with Bangladesh seamer Mustafizur Rahman. Sports, Cricket

Misery continues to rain on Delhi Capitals (DC) in the Indian Premier League as several overseas players opt out of the ongoing season. After BCCI announced the IPL 2025 resumption plan, starting this Saturday (May 17) and ending on June 3 (Tuesday) following its suspension, the revised schedule clashed with the international calendar. Among the boards whose most players featured in IPL 2025, Cricket Australia, Cricket South Africa, the ECB and CWI have their respective matches lined up during or around the IPL 2025 final date, putting plenty of those in a tight spot over abiding national and franchise commitments. However, those not part of any squad picked for the upcoming series have begun opting out due to security concerns. Also read | Mitchell Johnson slams BCCI for ‘forcing’ overseas players to play remainder of IPL 2025 The list continues to grow, mainly for the Delhi-based franchise. After Australian seamer Mitchell Starc decided against playing the remainder of the season to stay fresh for the WTC Final 2025 (against South Africa starting June 11 at Lord’s), the South African duo of opener and vice-captain Faf du Plessis and all-rounder Donovan Ferreira followed the same path, not returning for the remainder of IPL 2025. Opener Jake Fraser-McGurk had said no to returning to India for the tournament, with DC replacing him with Bangladesh seamer Mustafizur Rahman; his participation, however, remains unclear as he is currently in the UAE for the two-match T20Is against the hosts. Though Rahman could land in India any day beyond May 21, DC batter Tristan Stubbs would depart after May 25 to link up with the South African squad to prepare for the WTC Final 2025. More on Aussie players On the other hand, several Australian players, including SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) pair Pat Cummins and Travis Head, have decided to rejoin their IPL franchise for the remainder of the tournament. As SRH is already out of the Playoffs race, both would get free by May 25, having ample time to be ready for the South Africa tie. While RCB sweats over Josh Hazlewood’s availability, who is nursing a shoulder niggle, Punjab Kings gloveman Josh Inglis would not be returning to India. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) opener Mitchell Marsh will be back for the franchise.

Misery mounts on Delhi Capitals as star overseas players continue to opt out of IPL 2025

After suspending <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> for a week owing to escalating cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci" rel="dofollow">BCCI</a> announced its resumption with a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-releases-ipl-2025-revised-schedule-tournament-to-restart-on-may-17-final-in-june-9062057" rel="dofollow">revised schedule</a>. Although unprecedented circumstances forced the Indian Cricket Board to halt the tournament midway, as the same goes for PCB for the Pakistan Super League (PSL), its resumption has sent the tournament logistics up for a toss. Former Australian seamer and two-time IPL winner Mitchell Johnson has slammed the BCCI for coercing foreign players to compete in the remainder of the tournament.
While IPL 2025 was supposed to end on May 25 earlier, the final date is now pushed back to the first week of June, complicating overseas players&rsquo; national and franchise commitments.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-mitchell-starc-opts-out-of-remainder-of-ipl-2025-as-delhi-capitals-resume-training-report-gujarat-titans-9074008" rel="dofollow">Mitchell Starc opts out of remainder of IPL 2025 as Delhi Capitals resume training &ndash; Report</a>
For instance, England and the West Indies will begin their white-ball series on May 29, the same day IPL 2025 playoffs get underway, and Australia and South Africa will face off in the WTC Final 2025 starting June 11 at the Lord&rsquo;s. What these two series have done is tie up players picked to play for their national teams to decide on abiding by their IPL commitments. Cricket South Africa (CSA) decided against extending WTC Final-bound players&rsquo; NOCs, and Cricket Australia and the ECB decided on the same line.
However, those not featuring in any of the international series are back in India for the completion of IPL 2025.&nbsp;
While IPL 2025 resumes (in India), the PCB also decided to resume their premier T20 tournament on the same date. Several reports suggested that not all players were willing to turn up for their respective franchise teams across both competitions but were forced to avoid financial repercussions.
&ldquo;While Cricket Australia has empowered players to make their own decisions, the weight of those choices can be heavy. Opting not to play could lead to disappointment or even professional and financial repercussions down the track, but prioritising safety is first and foremost,&rdquo; Johnson wrote in his column for The Western Australian, as quoted by the Indian Express.&nbsp;
&ldquo;If I had to make a call whether to head back to India and finish the tournament, it would be an easy decision. It&rsquo;s a no from me. Lives and safety are the most important thing, not paying cheques.
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s a personal decision. No one should be coerced or feel pressured into going back, even if the IPL and Pakistan Super League, which has also been halted, push hard for it. Both tournaments should just end now or consider moving, which then becomes a huge financial issue,&rdquo; Johnson wrote.
<h2>Logistical challenges</h2>
Although until Thursday (May 15) evening, all South African players were going to be part of IPL 2025 playoffs, CSA&rsquo;s final call broke that notion, asking all WTC-Final-bound players to leave the tournament midway for the summit clash against Australia.
Also, several Australian players picked for the WTC Final have opted out against featuring for the remainder of the tournament, including seamer Mitchell Starc.
&ldquo;With the IPL final now pushed back to June 3, just a week before the WTC final starts at Lord&rsquo;s, the impact on players&rsquo; preparation for what is supposedly Test cricket&rsquo;s showpiece match is another issue. South Africa appears to be taking a much harder line with their players than Australia, which is interesting given the financial ties between India and South Africa through the SA20 competition,&rdquo; Johnson added.

Several reports suggested that not all players were willing to turn up for their respective franchise teams across both competitions but were forced to avoid financial repercussions. Sports, Cricket

After suspending IPL 2025 for a week owing to escalating cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan, the BCCI announced its resumption with a revised schedule. Although unprecedented circumstances forced the Indian Cricket Board to halt the tournament midway, as the same goes for PCB for the Pakistan Super League (PSL), its resumption has sent the tournament logistics up for a toss. Former Australian seamer and two-time IPL winner Mitchell Johnson has slammed the BCCI for coercing foreign players to compete in the remainder of the tournament. While IPL 2025 was supposed to end on May 25 earlier, the final date is now pushed back to the first week of June, complicating overseas players’ national and franchise commitments. Also read | Mitchell Starc opts out of remainder of IPL 2025 as Delhi Capitals resume training – Report For instance, England and the West Indies will begin their white-ball series on May 29, the same day IPL 2025 playoffs get underway, and Australia and South Africa will face off in the WTC Final 2025 starting June 11 at the Lord’s. What these two series have done is tie up players picked to play for their national teams to decide on abiding by their IPL commitments. Cricket South Africa (CSA) decided against extending WTC Final-bound players’ NOCs, and Cricket Australia and the ECB decided on the same line. However, those not featuring in any of the international series are back in India for the completion of IPL 2025. While IPL 2025 resumes (in India), the PCB also decided to resume their premier T20 tournament on the same date. Several reports suggested that not all players were willing to turn up for their respective franchise teams across both competitions but were forced to avoid financial repercussions. “While Cricket Australia has empowered players to make their own decisions, the weight of those choices can be heavy. Opting not to play could lead to disappointment or even professional and financial repercussions down the track, but prioritising safety is first and foremost,” Johnson wrote in his column for The Western Australian, as quoted by the Indian Express. “If I had to make a call whether to head back to India and finish the tournament, it would be an easy decision. It’s a no from me. Lives and safety are the most important thing, not paying cheques. “It’s a personal decision. No one should be coerced or feel pressured into going back, even if the IPL and Pakistan Super League, which has also been halted, push hard for it. Both tournaments should just end now or consider moving, which then becomes a huge financial issue,” Johnson wrote. Logistical challenges Although until Thursday (May 15) evening, all South African players were going to be part of IPL 2025 playoffs, CSA’s final call broke that notion, asking all WTC-Final-bound players to leave the tournament midway for the summit clash against Australia. Also, several Australian players picked for the WTC Final have opted out against featuring for the remainder of the tournament, including seamer Mitchell Starc. “With the IPL final now pushed back to June 3, just a week before the WTC final starts at Lord’s, the impact on players’ preparation for what is supposedly Test cricket’s showpiece match is another issue. South Africa appears to be taking a much harder line with their players than Australia, which is interesting given the financial ties between India and South Africa through the SA20 competition,” Johnson added.

Mitchell Johnson slams BCCI for ‘forcing’ overseas players to play remainder of IPL 2025

Australian pacer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mitchell-starc" rel="dofollow">Mitchell Starc</a> has decided against returning to play in the remainder of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/delhi-capitals" rel="dofollow">Delhi Capitals</a>, as the franchise resumes training ahead of their home game against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gujarat-titans" rel="dofollow">Gujarat Titans</a> on Sunday (May 18). Per the latest report, Starc has informed DC about his decision, with the IPL side prepared to fight for their maiden IPL title without their top wicket-taker thus far this season.
A Times of India (TOI) report states that Starc was not part of DC&rsquo;s first training session at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Thursday (May 15), while Sri Lankan seamer Dushmantha Chameera was the only overseas player present at the team practice. South African players, including Faf du Plessis and Tristan Stubbs, will rejoin the team soon, while team mentor Kevin Pietersen has landed in India, linking up with the squad on Friday.
Delhi will host Gujarat on Sunday at home, but will train at the franchise&rsquo;s training ground in Aerocity on Friday. GT also landed in the capital city on Thursday evening and is scheduled to begin practice for their first game this Sunday.
<h2>Changes in the MI squad</h2>
Due to national commitments, several English and South African players scheduled to feature for their countries, including Mumbai Indians&rsquo; overseas duo of Will Jacks and Ryan Rickelton, will not be part of the IPL 2025 Playoffs should MI qualify.&nbsp;
Cricket South Africa (CSA) confirmed that all WTC-Final-bound players playing in the cash-rich league must leave the tournament by May 25 to prepare for the summit clash against Australia starting June 11 at Lord&rsquo;s.
Rickelton, part of the Test squad for the WTC Final 2025, would be among the eight South African players who would link up with the Test squad. Per the latest report, MI have roped in England batter Jonny Bairstow and seamer Richard Gleeson as their replacements for the remainder of the season.&nbsp;
As England hosts West Indies for the white-ball series, starting with three ODIs on May 29, the same day IPL 2025 Playoffs get underway, Jacks will return home; although he landed in India following the tournament&rsquo;s resumption update.&nbsp;
Bairstow, his replacement, remained unsold at the mega auction in November last year and has not featured for England since June 2024. On the other hand, Gleeson, 37, made his IPL debut last season while playing for Chennai Super Kings.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians sit in fourth place on the points table with 14 points from 12 contested matches.&nbsp;

During his debut season with Delhi Capitals, Mitchell Starc has picked up 14 wickets in 12 contested matches, including a five-wicket haul. Sports, Cricket

Australian pacer Mitchell Starc has decided against returning to play in the remainder of IPL 2025 for Delhi Capitals, as the franchise resumes training ahead of their home game against Gujarat Titans on Sunday (May 18). Per the latest report, Starc has informed DC about his decision, with the IPL side prepared to fight for their maiden IPL title without their top wicket-taker thus far this season. A Times of India (TOI) report states that Starc was not part of DC’s first training session at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Thursday (May 15), while Sri Lankan seamer Dushmantha Chameera was the only overseas player present at the team practice. South African players, including Faf du Plessis and Tristan Stubbs, will rejoin the team soon, while team mentor Kevin Pietersen has landed in India, linking up with the squad on Friday. Delhi will host Gujarat on Sunday at home, but will train at the franchise’s training ground in Aerocity on Friday. GT also landed in the capital city on Thursday evening and is scheduled to begin practice for their first game this Sunday. Changes in the MI squad Due to national commitments, several English and South African players scheduled to feature for their countries, including Mumbai Indians’ overseas duo of Will Jacks and Ryan Rickelton, will not be part of the IPL 2025 Playoffs should MI qualify. Cricket South Africa (CSA) confirmed that all WTC-Final-bound players playing in the cash-rich league must leave the tournament by May 25 to prepare for the summit clash against Australia starting June 11 at Lord’s. Rickelton, part of the Test squad for the WTC Final 2025, would be among the eight South African players who would link up with the Test squad. Per the latest report, MI have roped in England batter Jonny Bairstow and seamer Richard Gleeson as their replacements for the remainder of the season. As England hosts West Indies for the white-ball series, starting with three ODIs on May 29, the same day IPL 2025 Playoffs get underway, Jacks will return home; although he landed in India following the tournament’s resumption update. Bairstow, his replacement, remained unsold at the mega auction in November last year and has not featured for England since June 2024. On the other hand, Gleeson, 37, made his IPL debut last season while playing for Chennai Super Kings. Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians sit in fourth place on the points table with 14 points from 12 contested matches.

Mitchell Starc opts out of remainder of IPL 2025 as Delhi Capitals resume training – Report

IPL knockout games come with high pressure and high rewards, and sometimes batters fail terribly under such high pressure. Here are 5 batters who got out for ducks when their teams needed them most. Cricket | Sports | Photos 

Big names, Bigger occasions and Biggest failures: Top players with most ducks in IPL Playoffs

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) is all set to resume as the fate of certain teams will be on the line for a place in the Playoffs round. While Gujarat Titans(GT) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are all but there in the Playoffs round, the likes of Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals and others are still fighting for a place in the Playoffs. So here&rsquo;s a detailed look at how teams can book their place in the top four.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Gujarat Titans</h2>
Gujarat Titans sit top of the table with 16 points from 11 matches and need one more win to officially book their place in the top four. Two more wins, coupled with other results, will see them finish in the top two, which guarantees two shots at a place in the IPL 2025 final.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Royal Challengers Bengaluru</h2>
Like Gujarat Titans, RCB also have a foot in the IPL 2025 Playoffs as they need a win to book their place. Two wins will see them qualify for the top four, coupled with Punjab Kings dropping points in at least one of their remaining matches.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Punjab Kings</h2>
Chasing their maiden title, Punjab Kings need one more win to book their place in the Playoffs as Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians go head-to-head in one of the matches. Punjab can finish in the top two if they win all their remaining matches, coupled with RCB or GT dropping points in at least one of their matches.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Mumbai Indians</h2>
Mumbai Indians will have a decisive week as they enter their remaining matches of the IPL 2025. If they beat Delhi Capitals in the head-to-head contest, they will be in the Playoffs, while hoping Lucknow Super Giants lose at least one match. Them finishing in the top two is unlikely as it would need GT, RCB and PBKS to lose matches in tandem.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Kolkata Knight Riders</h2>
KKR need a near-miracle to reach the IPL Playoffs as their fate is not in their hands. KKR need to win both matches, expecting the other Mumbai Indians to lose their remaining matches as well. They will need Delhi to beat Mumbai in their head-to-head contest, hoping the former loses the remaining matches. The above set of results will only see KKR finish level on points with Delhi Capitals, with Net Run Rate deciding the outcome for the final Playoff spot.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-batter-kusal-mendis-ditches-psl-for-maiden-ipl-stint-replaces-jos-butter-at-gujarat-titans-for-ipl-2025-playoffs-9071381" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Sri Lanka&rsquo;s Mendis ditches PSL for maiden IPL stint; replaces Butter at GT for playoffs</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Delhi Capitals</h2>
Like the Mumbai Indians, the Delhi Capitals&rsquo; fortunes also depend on what happens in the head-to-head match. If they win their remaining three matches, they will have a shot at the top two, while they at least need two wins to be in contention for a place in the Playoffs.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Lucknow Super Giants</h2>
With three matches to go, Lucknow Super Giants will have to win all three to stay in contention for a place in the Playoffs. However, if they fail to win even one of their remaining matches, they will face elimination. This would also need DC and MI to drop points in multiple matches and much will depend on the head-to-head contest between them.

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) is all set to resume as the fate of certain teams will be on the line for a place in the Playoffs round. India News | Cricket | Sports

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) is all set to resume as the fate of certain teams will be on the line for a place in the Playoffs round. While Gujarat Titans(GT) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are all but there in the Playoffs round, the likes of Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals and others are still fighting for a place in the Playoffs. So here’s a detailed look at how teams can book their place in the top four. Gujarat Titans Gujarat Titans sit top of the table with 16 points from 11 matches and need one more win to officially book their place in the top four. Two more wins, coupled with other results, will see them finish in the top two, which guarantees two shots at a place in the IPL 2025 final. Royal Challengers Bengaluru Like Gujarat Titans, RCB also have a foot in the IPL 2025 Playoffs as they need a win to book their place. Two wins will see them qualify for the top four, coupled with Punjab Kings dropping points in at least one of their remaining matches. Punjab Kings Chasing their maiden title, Punjab Kings need one more win to book their place in the Playoffs as Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians go head-to-head in one of the matches. Punjab can finish in the top two if they win all their remaining matches, coupled with RCB or GT dropping points in at least one of their matches. Mumbai Indians Mumbai Indians will have a decisive week as they enter their remaining matches of the IPL 2025. If they beat Delhi Capitals in the head-to-head contest, they will be in the Playoffs, while hoping Lucknow Super Giants lose at least one match. Them finishing in the top two is unlikely as it would need GT, RCB and PBKS to lose matches in tandem. Kolkata Knight Riders KKR need a near-miracle to reach the IPL Playoffs as their fate is not in their hands. KKR need to win both matches, expecting the other Mumbai Indians to lose their remaining matches as well. They will need Delhi to beat Mumbai in their head-to-head contest, hoping the former loses the remaining matches. The above set of results will only see KKR finish level on points with Delhi Capitals, with Net Run Rate deciding the outcome for the final Playoff spot. ALSO READ | Sri Lanka’s Mendis ditches PSL for maiden IPL stint; replaces Butter at GT for playoffs Delhi Capitals Like the Mumbai Indians, the Delhi Capitals’ fortunes also depend on what happens in the head-to-head match. If they win their remaining three matches, they will have a shot at the top two, while they at least need two wins to be in contention for a place in the Playoffs. Lucknow Super Giants With three matches to go, Lucknow Super Giants will have to win all three to stay in contention for a place in the Playoffs. However, if they fail to win even one of their remaining matches, they will face elimination. This would also need DC and MI to drop points in multiple matches and much will depend on the head-to-head contest between them.

IPL 2025 Playoffs Qualification Scenarios: GT, RCB and PBKS in pole position; MI, DC and KKR fight for top four finish

After much speculation, Cricket South Africa (CSA) and Indian Premier League (IPL) have reached on a decision about participation of WTC Final-bound players in IPL playoffs. South Africa have as much as eight WTC Final-bound players signed up with multiple franchises.
These players, however, are set to be released on May 27 to prepare for the WTC Final, reported ESPNCricinfo. The IPL restarts on May 17 after a brief hiatus due to India-Pakistan conflict.
The league stage gets over on May 27 and the playoffs begin on May 29 with the final to be scheduled on June 3. &nbsp;
Also Read -&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/keep-the-pitch-aside-how-kohlis-india-dominated-in-overseas-tests-by-backing-pacers-9064005" aria-label="'Keep the pitch aside: How Kohli&rsquo;s India dominated in overseas Tests by backing pacers">'Keep the pitch aside: How Kohli&rsquo;s India dominated in overseas Tests by backing pacers</a>
The Proteas players which will not be part of the IPL playoffs for their respective teams are: Kagiso Rabada (Gujarat Titans), Aiden Markram (Lucknow Super Giants), Marco Jansen (Punjab Kings), Tristan Stubbs (Delhi Capitals), Lungi Ngidi (Royal Challengers Bengaluru), Wiaan Mulder (Sunrisers Hyderabad), Ryan Rickelton and Corbin Bosch (both Mumbai Indians).
<h2>IPL allows franchises to name temporary replacements</h2>
In a memo issued to the franchise as reported by the ESPNCricinfo, the BCCI has approved temporary replacements for the players who are not going to be the part of rescheduled season. As per the new schedule, the final will be played on June 3.
"Given the non-availability of certain foreign players due to national commitments or personal reasons or any injury or illness, Temporary Replacement Players will be allowed until the conclusion of this tournament," the league said.
The replacement players, however, won't be allowed to retain by the franchise ahead of the next year's auction, clarified IPL.
IPL allows the teams to name replacement before the 12th match of the season and those replacements are eligible to be retained in the auction next year.
The IPL was suspended after rise in tensions between India and Pakistan following India's strike on nine terror camps across in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.

These players, however, are set to be released on May 27 to prepare for the WTC Final. The IPL restarts on May 17 after a brief hiatus due to India-Pakistan conflict. Cricket Sports

After much speculation, Cricket South Africa (CSA) and Indian Premier League (IPL) have reached on a decision about participation of WTC Final-bound players in IPL playoffs. South Africa have as much as eight WTC Final-bound players signed up with multiple franchises. These players, however, are set to be released on May 27 to prepare for the WTC Final, reported ESPNCricinfo. The IPL restarts on May 17 after a brief hiatus due to India-Pakistan conflict. The league stage gets over on May 27 and the playoffs begin on May 29 with the final to be scheduled on June 3. Also Read - 'Keep the pitch aside: How Kohli’s India dominated in overseas Tests by backing pacers The Proteas players which will not be part of the IPL playoffs for their respective teams are: Kagiso Rabada (Gujarat Titans), Aiden Markram (Lucknow Super Giants), Marco Jansen (Punjab Kings), Tristan Stubbs (Delhi Capitals), Lungi Ngidi (Royal Challengers Bengaluru), Wiaan Mulder (Sunrisers Hyderabad), Ryan Rickelton and Corbin Bosch (both Mumbai Indians). IPL allows franchises to name temporary replacements In a memo issued to the franchise as reported by the ESPNCricinfo, the BCCI has approved temporary replacements for the players who are not going to be the part of rescheduled season. As per the new schedule, the final will be played on June 3. "Given the non-availability of certain foreign players due to national commitments or personal reasons or any injury or illness, Temporary Replacement Players will be allowed until the conclusion of this tournament," the league said. The replacement players, however, won't be allowed to retain by the franchise ahead of the next year's auction, clarified IPL. IPL allows the teams to name replacement before the 12th match of the season and those replacements are eligible to be retained in the auction next year. The IPL was suspended after rise in tensions between India and Pakistan following India's strike on nine terror camps across in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.

Eight WTC final-bound South Africa players to miss IPL playoffs - Report

In the latest development surrounding India&rsquo;s five-match away Test series against England starting shortly after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gautam-gambhir" rel="dofollow">Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir</a> will lead the first batch of players and staff leaving for the UK on June 6. While the BCCI is working on the departure schedule of the Test squad (unannounced yet), the reports suggest that non-IPL-playoffs-bound players shall leave early.
Former India Test captain Rohit Sharma, alongside his longtime teammate and batting veteran Virat Kohli, retired from red-ball cricket just before the squad announcement, sending shockwaves down the cricket fraternity. Their departure meant BCCI selectors would struggle to assemble the best team for the England Tests this time.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-2025-no-clear-choice-for-indias-test-captaincy-yet-as-selectors-unsure-of-gill-dicey-over-bumrah-report-kl-rahul-9071145" rel="dofollow">ENG vs IND 2025: No clear choice for India's Test captaincy yet as selectors unsure of Gill, dicey over Bumrah - Report</a>
Although certain first-team players, including KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah, alongside a couple more, would get picked no matter what, the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee could likely rope in several new faces or those making right noises in the domestic circuit; some including Karun Nair, who will likely travel with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-bcci-prioritises-domestic-giants-over-ipl-stars-in-india-a-squad-for-england-tour-report-abhimanyu-easwaran-karun-nair-9058227" rel="dofollow">India-A squad</a>, alongside uncapped opener Abhimanyu Easawaran.
The BCCI is also said to handpick a few more uncapped players, including Baba Indrajith and Tanush Kotian, and those who will not be part of the IPL playoffs, including gloveman Dhruv Jurel, in the India-A squad.&nbsp;Akash Deep is another name tipped to travel with the India-A squad, while reports of seasoned all-rounder Shardul Thakur making the cut in the senior team are doing the rounds.
"The players who get free from the IPL during the league stage are likely to leave with coach Gambhir on June 6. The rest will leave after a short break post the IPL 2025 commitments," a senior BCCI official, as quoted by the Times of India (TOI).&nbsp;
<h2>IPL-playoffs-bound players to leave later</h2>
With no Rohit and Kohli around, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant (should LSG reach IPL 2025 playoffs), and Jasprit Bumrah would travel in the next batch, whose departure date remains undisclosed.&nbsp;
Shreyas Iyer, Punjab Kings captain, is also tipped to make his return to the Test side, replacing Kohli at number, and would also be on that flight to the UK should the selectors pick him. Another name highly anticipated to get picked for the England Tests is Gujarat Titans opener Sai Sudharsan, second on the list of most runs scored thus far this season (509 runs in 11 contested matches).&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Yashasvi Jaiswal (Rajasthan Royals), Ravindra Jadeja (Chennai Super Kings) and Nitish Kumar Reddy (SunRisers Hyderabad) could be part of the first batch to leave for the UK since their respective IPL teams are out of the IPL 2025 Playoffs race. &nbsp;

With no Rohit and Kohli around, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and Jasprit Bumrah would travel in the next batch, whose departure date remains undisclosed. Sports, Cricket

In the latest development surrounding India’s five-match away Test series against England starting shortly after IPL 2025, Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir will lead the first batch of players and staff leaving for the UK on June 6. While the BCCI is working on the departure schedule of the Test squad (unannounced yet), the reports suggest that non-IPL-playoffs-bound players shall leave early. Former India Test captain Rohit Sharma, alongside his longtime teammate and batting veteran Virat Kohli, retired from red-ball cricket just before the squad announcement, sending shockwaves down the cricket fraternity. Their departure meant BCCI selectors would struggle to assemble the best team for the England Tests this time. Also read | ENG vs IND 2025: No clear choice for India's Test captaincy yet as selectors unsure of Gill, dicey over Bumrah - Report Although certain first-team players, including KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah, alongside a couple more, would get picked no matter what, the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee could likely rope in several new faces or those making right noises in the domestic circuit; some including Karun Nair, who will likely travel with the India-A squad, alongside uncapped opener Abhimanyu Easawaran. The BCCI is also said to handpick a few more uncapped players, including Baba Indrajith and Tanush Kotian, and those who will not be part of the IPL playoffs, including gloveman Dhruv Jurel, in the India-A squad. Akash Deep is another name tipped to travel with the India-A squad, while reports of seasoned all-rounder Shardul Thakur making the cut in the senior team are doing the rounds. "The players who get free from the IPL during the league stage are likely to leave with coach Gambhir on June 6. The rest will leave after a short break post the IPL 2025 commitments," a senior BCCI official, as quoted by the Times of India (TOI). IPL-playoffs-bound players to leave later With no Rohit and Kohli around, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant (should LSG reach IPL 2025 playoffs), and Jasprit Bumrah would travel in the next batch, whose departure date remains undisclosed. Shreyas Iyer, Punjab Kings captain, is also tipped to make his return to the Test side, replacing Kohli at number, and would also be on that flight to the UK should the selectors pick him. Another name highly anticipated to get picked for the England Tests is Gujarat Titans opener Sai Sudharsan, second on the list of most runs scored thus far this season (509 runs in 11 contested matches). Meanwhile, Yashasvi Jaiswal (Rajasthan Royals), Ravindra Jadeja (Chennai Super Kings) and Nitish Kumar Reddy (SunRisers Hyderabad) could be part of the first batch to leave for the UK since their respective IPL teams are out of the IPL 2025 Playoffs race.

ENG vs IND 2025: Gautam Gambhir to leave with first batch on June 6; IPL-playoffs-bound players to arrive later

Punjab Kings(PBKS) pacer Arshdeep Singh tops the chart with $133K per wicket. Check out the full list of bowlers who cost the most for every dismissal this IPL season.  Cricket | Photos

Arshdeep gets Rs 1,125,00,00 per wicket – You won’t believe cost for others. Check the full list of players with highest cost per wicket

Veteran England all-rounder Moeen Ali has pulled out of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) owing to personal reasons on Thursday (May 15). Playing for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL 2025, Ali will now miss the remaining two matches of IPL 2025 with KKR all but out of the Playoffs race. On the other hand, Sunil Narine and Andre Russell are back in the squad ahead of the two remaining matches of KKR.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Moeen Ali opts out of IPL 2025</h2>
With the IPL 2025 set to resume on Saturday (May 17), Ali pulled out of the season in a blow for the franchise. He played in six matches in the IPL 2025, scalping six wickets while his best bowling figures were 23/2. The decision comes as a surprise for many despite him not being part of the white-ball series against the West Indies.
On the other hand, Sunil Narine and Andre Russell are back in the squad, having left India after the near-war situation between India and Pakistan. Narine was the stand-in skipper for the final few matches before the season was halted as Ajinkya Rahane was injured.
Narine has been impressive this season for KKR in IPL 2025. He has scored 215 runs with a best of 44 while scalping 10 wickets in 11 matches. Comparatively, Russell is not at his best in the IPL and faced criticism from senior players.
In 12 matches of IPL 2025, Russell has bagged eight wickets while scoring 167 runs for the defending champions.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-batter-kusal-mendis-ditches-psl-for-maiden-ipl-stint-replaces-jos-butter-at-gujarat-titans-for-ipl-2025-playoffs-9071381" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Sri Lanka&rsquo;s Mendis ditches PSL for maiden IPL stint; replaces Butter at GT for playoffs</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">KKR&rsquo;s tough path to IPL 2025 Playoffs</h2>
As things stand, KKR need a near-miracle to reach the IPL Playoffs as their fate is not in their hands. KKR need to win both matches, expecting the other Mumbai Indians to lose their remaining matches as well. They will need Delhi to beat Mumbai in their head-to-head contest, hoping the former loses the remaining matches.
The above set of results will only see KKR finish level on points with Delhi Capitals, with Net Run Rate deciding the outcome for the final Playoff spot.

Veteran England all-rounder Moeen Ali has pulled out of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) owing to personal reasons on Thursday (May 15). India News | Cricket | Sports

Veteran England all-rounder Moeen Ali has pulled out of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) owing to personal reasons on Thursday (May 15). Playing for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL 2025, Ali will now miss the remaining two matches of IPL 2025 with KKR all but out of the Playoffs race. On the other hand, Sunil Narine and Andre Russell are back in the squad ahead of the two remaining matches of KKR. Moeen Ali opts out of IPL 2025 With the IPL 2025 set to resume on Saturday (May 17), Ali pulled out of the season in a blow for the franchise. He played in six matches in the IPL 2025, scalping six wickets while his best bowling figures were 23/2. The decision comes as a surprise for many despite him not being part of the white-ball series against the West Indies. On the other hand, Sunil Narine and Andre Russell are back in the squad, having left India after the near-war situation between India and Pakistan. Narine was the stand-in skipper for the final few matches before the season was halted as Ajinkya Rahane was injured. Narine has been impressive this season for KKR in IPL 2025. He has scored 215 runs with a best of 44 while scalping 10 wickets in 11 matches. Comparatively, Russell is not at his best in the IPL and faced criticism from senior players. In 12 matches of IPL 2025, Russell has bagged eight wickets while scoring 167 runs for the defending champions. ALSO READ | Sri Lanka’s Mendis ditches PSL for maiden IPL stint; replaces Butter at GT for playoffs KKR’s tough path to IPL 2025 Playoffs As things stand, KKR need a near-miracle to reach the IPL Playoffs as their fate is not in their hands. KKR need to win both matches, expecting the other Mumbai Indians to lose their remaining matches as well. They will need Delhi to beat Mumbai in their head-to-head contest, hoping the former loses the remaining matches. The above set of results will only see KKR finish level on points with Delhi Capitals, with Net Run Rate deciding the outcome for the final Playoff spot.

IPL 2025: Moeen Ali opts out of rescheduled tournament; Sunil Narine, Andre Russell return for KKR

From Jasprit Bumrah to Mohit Sharma, here are the top five spells in IPL Playoffs history featuring Doug Bollinger, Dhawal Kulkarni and Akash Madhwal. Cricket | Photos 

Batters wow the crowd, but bowlers win you tournaments: Reliving the Top 5 spells in IPL Playoffs

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have been boosted by the return of Tim David as the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season is set for a restart. David, who, along with other international stars, left the IPL midway, was spotted in the RCB camp on Thursday (May 15). David will now join the likes of Romario Shepherd, Jacob Bethell, Liam Livingstone and Phil Salt as RCB search for their maiden IPL title.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Morphers activated. Our 𝑷𝒐𝒘𝒆𝒓 𝑹𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒔 are back. 🙌 Right on time and ready to strike! ⚡👊 <a href="https://t.co/ExyTQBYshD">pic.twitter.com/ExyTQBYshD</a>
&mdash; Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1922927156880883768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Tim David returns to the RCB camp<o:p></o:p></h2>
With the IPL 2025 on hold due to the Indo-Pak war, international stars were forced to return back home. This included Tim and other members of the RCB squad while they were in Lucknow for their fixture against Lucknow Super Giants last Friday. David has played an important role in the middle-order as he aids with both bat and ball. <o:p></o:p>
So far in 11 matches of the IPL 2025, David has scored 186 runs with a best of an unbeaten 50. He has an average of 93 while striking at 194. Interestingly, the next time steps on the field for RCB will be his 50th match in the IPL. <o:p></o:p>
On the other hand, RCB were also boosted by the return of Romario Shepherd and Liam Livingstone. However, the franchise is still sweating on the return of speedster Josh Hazlewood and Lungi Ngidi. Hazlewood is nursing a shoulder injury, while Ngidi&rsquo;s availability in the Playoffs is still doubtful due to him being named in the South African squad for the World Test Championship (WTC) final.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-batter-kusal-mendis-ditches-psl-for-maiden-ipl-stint-replaces-jos-butter-at-gujarat-titans-for-ipl-2025-playoffs-9071381" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Sri Lanka&rsquo;s Mendis ditches PSL for maiden IPL stint; replaces Butter at GT for playoffs</a> 
Hazlewood has been the frontline option for RCB and has scalped 18 wickets so far in the IPL 2025. His miss could dent RCB&rsquo;s chances of winning their maiden IPL title, while the likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Yash Dayal have been decent. <o:p></o:p>
RCB will restart their IPL 2025 season with a home fixture against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), with a win guaranteeing them a place in the Playoffs. On the other hand, a defeat for KKR will end their pursuit of a place in the Playoffs.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have been boosted by the return of Tim David as the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season is set for a restart. India News | Sports | Cricket

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have been boosted by the return of Tim David as the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season is set for a restart. David, who, along with other international stars, left the IPL midway, was spotted in the RCB camp on Thursday (May 15). David will now join the likes of Romario Shepherd, Jacob Bethell, Liam Livingstone and Phil Salt as RCB search for their maiden IPL title. Morphers activated. Our 𝑷𝒐𝒘𝒆𝒓 𝑹𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒔 are back. 🙌 Right on time and ready to strike! ⚡👊 pic.twitter.com/ExyTQBYshD — Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) May 15, 2025 Tim David returns to the RCB camp With the IPL 2025 on hold due to the Indo-Pak war, international stars were forced to return back home. This included Tim and other members of the RCB squad while they were in Lucknow for their fixture against Lucknow Super Giants last Friday. David has played an important role in the middle-order as he aids with both bat and ball. So far in 11 matches of the IPL 2025, David has scored 186 runs with a best of an unbeaten 50. He has an average of 93 while striking at 194. Interestingly, the next time steps on the field for RCB will be his 50th match in the IPL. On the other hand, RCB were also boosted by the return of Romario Shepherd and Liam Livingstone. However, the franchise is still sweating on the return of speedster Josh Hazlewood and Lungi Ngidi. Hazlewood is nursing a shoulder injury, while Ngidi’s availability in the Playoffs is still doubtful due to him being named in the South African squad for the World Test Championship (WTC) final. ALSO READ | Sri Lanka’s Mendis ditches PSL for maiden IPL stint; replaces Butter at GT for playoffs Hazlewood has been the frontline option for RCB and has scalped 18 wickets so far in the IPL 2025. His miss could dent RCB’s chances of winning their maiden IPL title, while the likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Yash Dayal have been decent. RCB will restart their IPL 2025 season with a home fixture against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), with a win guaranteeing them a place in the Playoffs. On the other hand, a defeat for KKR will end their pursuit of a place in the Playoffs.

IPL 2025: Playoff-bound RCB get huge boost, Tim David joins squad ahead of restart

Star Sri Lankan batter Kusal Mendis has ditched the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/psl-2025" rel="dofollow">Pakistan Super League (PSL)</a> for his maiden IPL stint, replacing Gujarat Titans&rsquo; Jos Buttler for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> Playoffs. England selectors named Buttler in the ODI squad for the home series against West Indies, which begins May 29 - the same day when the playoffs get underway, making him unavailable for the knockout games this season.
Last Friday (May 9), the BCCI suspended IPL 2025 for a week due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan; likewise, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) also suspended PSL 2025, later trying to stage it outside the country, but failed.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-romario-shepherd-and-liam-livingstone-rejoin-rcb-squad-no-clarity-on-foreign-pace-duo-josh-hazlewood-ecb-wtc-final-9070082" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: Romario Shepherd and Liam Livingstone rejoin RCB squad; no clarity on foreign pace duo</a>
Mendis was playing in the competition for Quetta Gladiators until last week but decided against returning (when PSL 2025 resumes on May 17) due to perceived safety concerns. Instead, he opted to accept GT&rsquo;s offer to play as a replacement for one of their top scorers this season, Buttler, in the IPL 2025 Playoffs.&nbsp;
For the record, Mendis never featured in the cash-rich league before, making it his debut season should he get a game.&nbsp;
<h2>Time to unleash Mendis</h2>
Although Gujarat Titans have two wicketkeeping options in their squads, Anuj Rawat and Kumar Khushagra, Mendis&rsquo; form could force them to replace an overseas top-order batter with another. Meanwhile, Mendis scored 143 runs in five contested PSL matches this season, striking at 168.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-playoffs-cricket-south-africa-does-u-turn-on-their-players-availability-wtc-final-2025-prep-to-begin-in-june-9070906" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025 Playoffs: Cricket South Africa does U-Turn on their players&rsquo; availability; WTC Final prep to begin in June</a>
Meanwhile, GT sits in the top position on the points table with joint-most points alongside Royal Challengers Bengaluru (16 points), but with a better NRR. In 11 contested matches thus far, Gujarat has won eight and lost three. For GT to seal their IPL 2025 Playoffs spot, they must win at least one of the three remaining games.&nbsp;
In the revised IPL 2025 schedule, Gujarat will face Delhi Capitals in an away clash on Sunday (May 18) before hosting Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on May 22 and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) three days later on May 25.&nbsp;
Buttler, alongside those picked in the ODI squad for the WI series, shall leave the tournament midway (on May 25). The T20 veteran is also among the top run-getters this season, hitting 500 runs in 11 outings, including five fifties.&nbsp;

Mendis was playing in the competition for Quetta Gladiators until last week but decided against returning due to perceived safety concerns. Sports, Cricket

Star Sri Lankan batter Kusal Mendis has ditched the Pakistan Super League (PSL) for his maiden IPL stint, replacing Gujarat Titans’ Jos Buttler for the IPL 2025 Playoffs. England selectors named Buttler in the ODI squad for the home series against West Indies, which begins May 29 - the same day when the playoffs get underway, making him unavailable for the knockout games this season. Last Friday (May 9), the BCCI suspended IPL 2025 for a week due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan; likewise, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) also suspended PSL 2025, later trying to stage it outside the country, but failed. Also read | IPL 2025: Romario Shepherd and Liam Livingstone rejoin RCB squad; no clarity on foreign pace duo Mendis was playing in the competition for Quetta Gladiators until last week but decided against returning (when PSL 2025 resumes on May 17) due to perceived safety concerns. Instead, he opted to accept GT’s offer to play as a replacement for one of their top scorers this season, Buttler, in the IPL 2025 Playoffs. For the record, Mendis never featured in the cash-rich league before, making it his debut season should he get a game. Time to unleash Mendis Although Gujarat Titans have two wicketkeeping options in their squads, Anuj Rawat and Kumar Khushagra, Mendis’ form could force them to replace an overseas top-order batter with another. Meanwhile, Mendis scored 143 runs in five contested PSL matches this season, striking at 168. Also read | IPL 2025 Playoffs: Cricket South Africa does U-Turn on their players’ availability; WTC Final prep to begin in June Meanwhile, GT sits in the top position on the points table with joint-most points alongside Royal Challengers Bengaluru (16 points), but with a better NRR. In 11 contested matches thus far, Gujarat has won eight and lost three. For GT to seal their IPL 2025 Playoffs spot, they must win at least one of the three remaining games. In the revised IPL 2025 schedule, Gujarat will face Delhi Capitals in an away clash on Sunday (May 18) before hosting Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on May 22 and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) three days later on May 25. Buttler, alongside those picked in the ODI squad for the WI series, shall leave the tournament midway (on May 25). The T20 veteran is also among the top run-getters this season, hitting 500 runs in 11 outings, including five fifties.

Sri Lanka’s Mendis ditches PSL for maiden IPL stint; replaces Butter at GT for playoffs

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to resume on Saturday (May 17) after a brief hiatus due to India-Pakistan conflict. The rescheduled season, however, has impacted foreign players' availability but the league has addressed that.
In a memo issued to the franchise as reported by the ESPNCricinfo, the BCCI has approved temporary replacements for the players who are not going to be the part of rescheduled season. As per the new schedule, the final will be played on June 3.
"Given the non-availability of certain foreign players due to national commitments or personal reasons or any injury or illness, Temporary Replacement Players will be allowed until the conclusion of this tournament," the league said.
Also Read -&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-playoffs-cricket-south-africa-does-u-turn-on-their-players-availability-wtc-final-2025-prep-to-begin-in-june-9070906" aria-label="IPL 2025 Playoffs: Cricket South Africa does U-Turn on their players&rsquo; availability; WTC Final prep to begin in June">IPL 2025 Playoffs: Cricket South Africa does U-Turn on their players&rsquo; availability; WTC Final prep to begin in June</a>
The replacement players, however, won't be allowed to retain by the franchise ahead of the next year's auction, clarified IPL.
"This decision is subject to the condition that the Temporary Replacement players taken from this point forward will not be eligible for retention in the following year. Temporary Replacement players will have to register for the IPL Player Auction 2026."
IPL allows the teams to name replacement before the 12th match of the season and those replacements are eligible to be retained in the auction next year.
Some of the franchises did name replacements before the suspension of the season, i.e. Sediqullah Atal (Delhi Capitals), Mayank Agarwal (Royal Challengers Bengaluru), Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Nandre Burger (both Rajasthan Royals), and all these players are eligible to be retained for the next season.
While most of the players have confirmed their availability for the rescheduled season, some including Jake Fraser-McGurk (DC), Jos Buttler (GT) and Jamie Overton (Chennai Super Kings) have withdrawn.
The IPL was suspended after rise in tensions between India and Pakistan following India's strike on nine terror camps across in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.

IPL allows the teams to name replacement before the 12th match of the season and those replacements are eligible to be retained in the auction next year. Cricket Sports

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to resume on Saturday (May 17) after a brief hiatus due to India-Pakistan conflict. The rescheduled season, however, has impacted foreign players' availability but the league has addressed that. In a memo issued to the franchise as reported by the ESPNCricinfo, the BCCI has approved temporary replacements for the players who are not going to be the part of rescheduled season. As per the new schedule, the final will be played on June 3. "Given the non-availability of certain foreign players due to national commitments or personal reasons or any injury or illness, Temporary Replacement Players will be allowed until the conclusion of this tournament," the league said. Also Read - IPL 2025 Playoffs: Cricket South Africa does U-Turn on their players’ availability; WTC Final prep to begin in June The replacement players, however, won't be allowed to retain by the franchise ahead of the next year's auction, clarified IPL. "This decision is subject to the condition that the Temporary Replacement players taken from this point forward will not be eligible for retention in the following year. Temporary Replacement players will have to register for the IPL Player Auction 2026." IPL allows the teams to name replacement before the 12th match of the season and those replacements are eligible to be retained in the auction next year. Some of the franchises did name replacements before the suspension of the season, i.e. Sediqullah Atal (Delhi Capitals), Mayank Agarwal (Royal Challengers Bengaluru), Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Nandre Burger (both Rajasthan Royals), and all these players are eligible to be retained for the next season. While most of the players have confirmed their availability for the rescheduled season, some including Jake Fraser-McGurk (DC), Jos Buttler (GT) and Jamie Overton (Chennai Super Kings) have withdrawn. The IPL was suspended after rise in tensions between India and Pakistan following India's strike on nine terror camps across in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.

IPL allows franchises to name temporary replacements for unavailable players but with a catch

The talks around the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> playoffs continue to create a ruckus among the boards, teams, fans and those participating. After the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci" rel="dofollow">BCCI</a> announced the resumption of IPL 2025 following its suspension on May 9, several teams began sweating over the availability of their overseas players due to logistical and national team commitments. Cricket South Africa (CSA) is the latest to make changes to their WTC Final 2025 preparation plans.
Though they earlier stated that the board decided against extending NOCs to its WTC Final-bound players, the latest report suggests that they have pushed back their preparation date for the summit clash against Australia at the Lord&rsquo;s starting June 11.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-mustafizur-rahman-boards-uae-flight-for-two-t20is-but-bcb-insists-he-can-still-play-in-ipl-2025-heres-how-india-pakistan-9070405" rel="dofollow">Mustafizur Rahman boards UAE flight for two T20Is, but BCB insists he can still play in IPL 2025. Here&rsquo;s how</a>
CSA had issued NOCs to all IPL-bound players till May 25 - the original date of the IPL final; however, following unprecedented circumstances that forced the BCCI to suspend the tournament, everything went up for a toss. Later, the Indian Board released a revised schedule, which sees IPL 2025 resuming on May 17 and ending on June 3. This schedule change has put plenty of boards and players in a tight spot over managing and honouring franchise and international cricket commitments.
As reported earlier, CSA's director of national teams and high performance, Enoch Nkwe, said, "It is an individual decision, obviously, to return or to play or continue.&nbsp;
&ldquo;One thing we've made clear, and we are finalising this with the IPL and the BCCI, is sticking to our original plan when it comes to the WTC preparations."
"May 26 is the latest for the Test guys to come back. The original plans don't change because the No. 1 priority is the WTC final. We've been engaging with them over the last day or two to make sure we're all on the same page."
<h2>Change in plan</h2>
It changed quickly. A West Australian report, also carried out by several leading publications, confirms that Nkwe stated a new date for South Africa&rsquo;s training date for the WTC Final.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-romario-shepherd-and-liam-livingstone-rejoin-rcb-squad-no-clarity-on-foreign-pace-duo-josh-hazlewood-ecb-wtc-final-9070082" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: Romario Shepherd and Liam Livingstone rejoin RCB squad; no clarity on foreign pace duo</a>
&ldquo;Correction &ndash; the squad will resume training for the game on June 3rd,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;The matter is being discussed higher up than me. At ground level, we are focusing on preps for the WTC final.&rdquo;
Meanwhile, eight WTC-Final-Bound South African players are currently plying their trades in IPL 2025, including Kagiso Rabada (Gujarat Titans), Lungi Ngidi (Royal Challengers Bengaluru), Tristan Stubbs (Delhi Capitals), Aiden Markram (Lucknow Super Giants), Ryan Rickelton (Mumbai Indians), Corbin Bosch (MI), Marco Jansen (Punjab Kings) and Wiaan Mulder (Sunrisers Hyderabad), whose participation remains unclear as of now.&nbsp;
Besides, considering the revised IPL 2025 schedule, which sees the Playoffs get underway from May 29 till June 3, CSA&rsquo;s preparation game against Zimbabwe would have to be pushed back.&nbsp;

The latest report suggests that they have pushed back their preparation date for the summit clash against Australia at the Lord’s starting June 11. Sports, Cricket

The talks around the IPL 2025 playoffs continue to create a ruckus among the boards, teams, fans and those participating. After the BCCI announced the resumption of IPL 2025 following its suspension on May 9, several teams began sweating over the availability of their overseas players due to logistical and national team commitments. Cricket South Africa (CSA) is the latest to make changes to their WTC Final 2025 preparation plans. Though they earlier stated that the board decided against extending NOCs to its WTC Final-bound players, the latest report suggests that they have pushed back their preparation date for the summit clash against Australia at the Lord’s starting June 11. Also read | Mustafizur Rahman boards UAE flight for two T20Is, but BCB insists he can still play in IPL 2025. Here’s how CSA had issued NOCs to all IPL-bound players till May 25 - the original date of the IPL final; however, following unprecedented circumstances that forced the BCCI to suspend the tournament, everything went up for a toss. Later, the Indian Board released a revised schedule, which sees IPL 2025 resuming on May 17 and ending on June 3. This schedule change has put plenty of boards and players in a tight spot over managing and honouring franchise and international cricket commitments. As reported earlier, CSA's director of national teams and high performance, Enoch Nkwe, said, "It is an individual decision, obviously, to return or to play or continue. “One thing we've made clear, and we are finalising this with the IPL and the BCCI, is sticking to our original plan when it comes to the WTC preparations." "May 26 is the latest for the Test guys to come back. The original plans don't change because the No. 1 priority is the WTC final. We've been engaging with them over the last day or two to make sure we're all on the same page." Change in plan It changed quickly. A West Australian report, also carried out by several leading publications, confirms that Nkwe stated a new date for South Africa’s training date for the WTC Final. Also read | IPL 2025: Romario Shepherd and Liam Livingstone rejoin RCB squad; no clarity on foreign pace duo “Correction – the squad will resume training for the game on June 3rd,” he said. “The matter is being discussed higher up than me. At ground level, we are focusing on preps for the WTC final.” Meanwhile, eight WTC-Final-Bound South African players are currently plying their trades in IPL 2025, including Kagiso Rabada (Gujarat Titans), Lungi Ngidi (Royal Challengers Bengaluru), Tristan Stubbs (Delhi Capitals), Aiden Markram (Lucknow Super Giants), Ryan Rickelton (Mumbai Indians), Corbin Bosch (MI), Marco Jansen (Punjab Kings) and Wiaan Mulder (Sunrisers Hyderabad), whose participation remains unclear as of now. Besides, considering the revised IPL 2025 schedule, which sees the Playoffs get underway from May 29 till June 3, CSA’s preparation game against Zimbabwe would have to be pushed back.

IPL 2025 Playoffs: Cricket South Africa does U-Turn on their players’ availability; WTC Final prep to begin in June

Bangladesh seamer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mustafizur-rahman" rel="dofollow">Mustafizur Rahman</a> has reached the UAE for the scheduled two-match T20Is starting May 17, the day <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> resumes. However, he can still be part of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/delhi-capitals" rel="dofollow">Delhi Capitals (DC)</a> squad for the remainder of the tournament. In the latest development, as explained and confirmed by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), the board is working on managing Mustafizur's national and franchise cricket commitments.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-maoxskdp-0s5rjrgi-4xclv8ze">
Heading to UAE to play against them. Keep me in your prayers. <a href="https://t.co/dI7DHTfj73">pic.twitter.com/dI7DHTfj73</a>
&mdash; Mustafizur Rahman (@Mustafiz90) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mustafiz90/status/1922651743151587505?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
Delhi roped in Mustafizur as Jake Fraser-McGurk&rsquo;s replacement for the remainder of the season. The BCB denied his participation by saying they never received any request for the No-Objection Certificate (NOC) required in this case. It put his IPL 2025 participation in jeopardy.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-romario-shepherd-and-liam-livingstone-rejoin-rcb-squad-no-clarity-on-foreign-pace-duo-josh-hazlewood-ecb-wtc-final-9070082" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: Romario Shepherd and Liam Livingstone rejoin RCB squad; no clarity on foreign pace duo</a>
Per the latest report, the BCB continues to analyse the India-Pakistan cross-border situation, which forced the BCCI and the PCB to postpone their respective premier T20 tournaments. While the BCCI suspended IPL 2025 for a week owing to escalating tensions between both countries, the PCB tried staging the remainder of PSL 2025 outside of Pakistan in the UAE, only to face rejection from the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB).
Though both tournaments will resume shortly, the BCB finds itself in a tight spot over offering NOCs to the players playing across both leagues. A BCB source close to the information revealed they have no issues allowing Mustafizur to play in IPL 2025, but should that happen, they then have to offer NOCs to two other players, Rishad Hossain and Nahid Rana, who played in PSL 2025.
Given the board is conscious of making a rational decision here, they are also keen to avoid getting into an uncomfortable situation with their neighbouring boards &ndash; BCCI and PCB.
"We are not saying that we won't let Mustafizur play in the IPL for the Delhi Capitals, but at the same time, there is a thing called national commitment, and he needs to fulfil that," a BCB director said on request of anonymity.&nbsp;
"Along with that, if we had released him in that case, what would we have done with the two cricketers who took part in PSL, as they could have asked why we were not releasing them?
"We don't want to be in a position that allows any Board to point a finger at us," the source continued, as quoted by Cricbuzz.
<h2>How can he play in IPL 2025?</h2>
The latest report suggests that there are two possible scenarios.
Mustafizur could be released following the T20Is concluding on May 21 (Monday), and he could then link up with the DC team for the remainder of the IPL 2025 games. In another case, should Bangladesh release him after the first T20I (May 17), the left-armer would be available for DC&rsquo;s three league games, while the number could increase should DC qualify for the playoffs.&nbsp;
If they fail to progress further in the tournament, Mustafizur could re-link with the Bangladesh team for the away T20Is against Pakistan starting May 27.&nbsp; The BCB, however, awaits the government&rsquo;s directives regarding their tour of Pakistan.&nbsp;

Delhi Capitals roped in Mustafizur as Jake Fraser-McGurk’s replacement for the remainder of IPL 2025. With Starc's participation in doubt due to national commitments, Mustafizur was their only overseas left-armer. Sports, Cricket

Bangladesh seamer Mustafizur Rahman has reached the UAE for the scheduled two-match T20Is starting May 17, the day IPL 2025 resumes. However, he can still be part of the Delhi Capitals (DC) squad for the remainder of the tournament. In the latest development, as explained and confirmed by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), the board is working on managing Mustafizur's national and franchise cricket commitments. Heading to UAE to play against them. Keep me in your prayers. pic.twitter.com/dI7DHTfj73 — Mustafizur Rahman (@Mustafiz90) May 14, 2025 Delhi roped in Mustafizur as Jake Fraser-McGurk’s replacement for the remainder of the season. The BCB denied his participation by saying they never received any request for the No-Objection Certificate (NOC) required in this case. It put his IPL 2025 participation in jeopardy. Also read | IPL 2025: Romario Shepherd and Liam Livingstone rejoin RCB squad; no clarity on foreign pace duo Per the latest report, the BCB continues to analyse the India-Pakistan cross-border situation, which forced the BCCI and the PCB to postpone their respective premier T20 tournaments. While the BCCI suspended IPL 2025 for a week owing to escalating tensions between both countries, the PCB tried staging the remainder of PSL 2025 outside of Pakistan in the UAE, only to face rejection from the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB). Though both tournaments will resume shortly, the BCB finds itself in a tight spot over offering NOCs to the players playing across both leagues. A BCB source close to the information revealed they have no issues allowing Mustafizur to play in IPL 2025, but should that happen, they then have to offer NOCs to two other players, Rishad Hossain and Nahid Rana, who played in PSL 2025. Given the board is conscious of making a rational decision here, they are also keen to avoid getting into an uncomfortable situation with their neighbouring boards – BCCI and PCB. "We are not saying that we won't let Mustafizur play in the IPL for the Delhi Capitals, but at the same time, there is a thing called national commitment, and he needs to fulfil that," a BCB director said on request of anonymity. "Along with that, if we had released him in that case, what would we have done with the two cricketers who took part in PSL, as they could have asked why we were not releasing them? "We don't want to be in a position that allows any Board to point a finger at us," the source continued, as quoted by Cricbuzz. How can he play in IPL 2025? The latest report suggests that there are two possible scenarios. Mustafizur could be released following the T20Is concluding on May 21 (Monday), and he could then link up with the DC team for the remainder of the IPL 2025 games. In another case, should Bangladesh release him after the first T20I (May 17), the left-armer would be available for DC’s three league games, while the number could increase should DC qualify for the playoffs. If they fail to progress further in the tournament, Mustafizur could re-link with the Bangladesh team for the away T20Is against Pakistan starting May 27. The BCB, however, awaits the government’s directives regarding their tour of Pakistan.

Mustafizur Rahman boards UAE flight for two T20Is, but BCB insists he can still play in IPL 2025. Here’s how

In a massive boost to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/royal-challengers-bangalore-rcb" rel="dofollow">Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)</a>, the overseas duo of Romario Shepherd and Liam Livingstone has rejoined the franchise ahead of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> resumption on Saturday (May 17). With the tournament restarting following a nine-day suspension due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the RCB receives this morale-pushing news amid foreign players' logistical concerns surrounding the international calendar.
Shepherd is among a handful of West Indies players who returned to India alongside the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kolkata-knight-riders" rel="dofollow">Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)</a> duo of Andre Russell, Sunil Narine and their mentor, Dwayne Bravo. While Shepherd is part of West Indies&rsquo; white-ball squad for the away England series starting May 29 - the day IPL 2025 gets underway, Cricket West Indies (CWI) is yet to clarify if all those picked for the international series leave the IPL 2025 midway.
On the other hand, Livingstone has also rejoined the franchise, which sits in second place on the points table with 16 points from 11 contested matches. Liam&rsquo;s England teammate Jacob Bethell has already rejoined the team; though the rookie all-rounder is part of the England squad for the home series against WI, the ECB dropped Liam from both ODI and T20I squads.&nbsp;
Bethell will remain available for RCB&rsquo;s next two matches - against KKR and SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) &ndash; but fly home before the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) tie. Per the latest reports, the ECB and several other boards decided against extending NOCs to their players beyond the decided date earlier (May 25) to honour international commitments.
<h2>No words on the overseas pace duo</h2>
On the other hand, the RCB awaits confirmation on its overseas pace duo of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/josh-hazlewood" rel="dofollow">Josh Hazlewood</a> and Lungi Ngidi.&nbsp;
Hazlewood is nursing a shoulder niggle he suffered earlier this month and would have missed the tournament anyway had it not been interrupted. Ngidi, who made his RCB debut against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and is also part of South Africa&rsquo;s WTC Final squad against Australia, might remain available for just two matches before linking with the South Africa squad.
The WTC-bound South African players will leave the IPL by May 25.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Phil Salt, who missed the last two games for the franchise due to illness, will remain available for the remainder of the tournament. He is part of the T20I squad against the West Indies, which begins June 6, three days after the IPL 2025 final.&nbsp;

The ECB and several other boards decided against extending NOCs to their players beyond the decided date earlier (May 25) to honour international commitments. Sports, Cricket

In a massive boost to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the overseas duo of Romario Shepherd and Liam Livingstone has rejoined the franchise ahead of the IPL 2025 resumption on Saturday (May 17). With the tournament restarting following a nine-day suspension due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the RCB receives this morale-pushing news amid foreign players' logistical concerns surrounding the international calendar. Shepherd is among a handful of West Indies players who returned to India alongside the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) duo of Andre Russell, Sunil Narine and their mentor, Dwayne Bravo. While Shepherd is part of West Indies’ white-ball squad for the away England series starting May 29 - the day IPL 2025 gets underway, Cricket West Indies (CWI) is yet to clarify if all those picked for the international series leave the IPL 2025 midway. On the other hand, Livingstone has also rejoined the franchise, which sits in second place on the points table with 16 points from 11 contested matches. Liam’s England teammate Jacob Bethell has already rejoined the team; though the rookie all-rounder is part of the England squad for the home series against WI, the ECB dropped Liam from both ODI and T20I squads. Bethell will remain available for RCB’s next two matches - against KKR and SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) – but fly home before the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) tie. Per the latest reports, the ECB and several other boards decided against extending NOCs to their players beyond the decided date earlier (May 25) to honour international commitments. No words on the overseas pace duo On the other hand, the RCB awaits confirmation on its overseas pace duo of Josh Hazlewood and Lungi Ngidi. Hazlewood is nursing a shoulder niggle he suffered earlier this month and would have missed the tournament anyway had it not been interrupted. Ngidi, who made his RCB debut against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and is also part of South Africa’s WTC Final squad against Australia, might remain available for just two matches before linking with the South Africa squad. The WTC-bound South African players will leave the IPL by May 25. Meanwhile, Phil Salt, who missed the last two games for the franchise due to illness, will remain available for the remainder of the tournament. He is part of the T20I squad against the West Indies, which begins June 6, three days after the IPL 2025 final.

IPL 2025: Romario Shepherd and Liam Livingstone rejoin RCB squad; no clarity on foreign pace duo

&nbsp;In the IPL, talent comes at a price and sometimes, a very hefty one.
The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=mega+auction" rel="dofollow">2025 IPL mega auction</a> saw teams dig deep into their wallets, chasing big names with even bigger bids. Rishabh Pant went to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=LUCKNOW+SUPER+GIANTS" rel="dofollow">Lucknow Super Giants</a> for a jaw-dropping ₹27 crore, while Punjab Kings splashed ₹26.75 crore on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=SHREYAS+IYER" rel="dofollow">Shreyas Iyer.</a> These were eye-popping figures, but did the batters live up to the price tag?
As the league stage winds down, it's time to break down the price tag to see whether the franchise's investment in the players gave better returns.
Here's how much each run cost the top five most expensive batters in IPL 2025.
1. Rishabh Pant
Rishabh Pant was picked up for a massive $3.21 million (₹27 crore) in the IPL 2025 auction by Lucknow Super Giants, but his performances haven&rsquo;t matched the price tag. In 11 matches, he has scored only 128 runs, which means every single run has cost his team around $25,078 (₹21.42 lakhs).
2. Shreyas Iyer
Shreyas Iyer was signed by Punjab Kings (PBKS) for $3.18 million (₹26.75 crore), and he has delivered a steady season so far. With 405 runs in 11 games, each of his runs has come at a cost of about $7,582 (₹6.70 lakhs). He&rsquo;s been more consistent than most in the top-paid list and his captaincy has helped Punjab be in the top 2 of the points table.
<figure class="image"><img alt="GFX-2" src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/05/14/nMERTaDj4eyJxNFpsLgx.jpg" style="width: 1280px;">
<figcaption>Photograph: (WION)</figcaption>
</figure>
3. Venkatesh Iyer
Venkatesh Iyer was bought for $2.83 million (₹23.75 crore), but the returns haven&rsquo;t been up to his price tag. He has managed just 142 runs in 11 matches, which means every run has cost KKR $ 19,929 (₹17.02 lakhs).
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-time-olympic-medalist-neeraj-chopra-conferred-with-honorary-rank-of-lieutenant-colonel-in-territorial-army-9068770" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Two-time Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra conferred with honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in Territorial Army</a>
4. Jos Buttler
Gujarat Titans(GT) picked Jos Buttler for $1.88 million (₹15.75 crore), and he&rsquo;s proven to be worth every penny. With 500 runs in just 11 matches, each run has cost the team only $3,760 (₹ 3.21 lakhs), the best value per run among the top five expensive batters. He is just 10 runs behind the orange cap leader Suryakumar Yadav.
5. KL Rahul
KL Rahul came into the season with a price tag of $1.67 million (₹14 crore). He has scored 381 runs in 10 games for Delhi Capitals. That brings his cost per run to around $4,383 (₹3.74 lakhs).
As IPL 2025 nears its end, it's clear that spending big doesn&rsquo;t always guarantee big returns. While some top-priced batters like Shreyas Iyer and Jos Buttler have delivered, others have struggled to match expectations for their price tag. In a tournament as competitive as the IPL, every run and every penny truly counts.
Sometimes, the question should be asked: Do players fall to the pressure of high price tags?
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

The 2025 IPL mega auction saw teams dig deep into their wallets, chasing big names with even bigger bids. Rishabh Pant went to Lucknow Super Giants for a jaw-dropping ₹27 crore, while Punjab Kings splashed ₹26.75 crore on Shreyas Iyer. Cricket | Sports

In the IPL, talent comes at a price and sometimes, a very hefty one. The 2025 IPL mega auction saw teams dig deep into their wallets, chasing big names with even bigger bids. Rishabh Pant went to Lucknow Super Giants for a jaw-dropping ₹27 crore, while Punjab Kings splashed ₹26.75 crore on Shreyas Iyer. These were eye-popping figures, but did the batters live up to the price tag? As the league stage winds down, it's time to break down the price tag to see whether the franchise's investment in the players gave better returns. Here's how much each run cost the top five most expensive batters in IPL 2025. 1. Rishabh Pant Rishabh Pant was picked up for a massive $3.21 million (₹27 crore) in the IPL 2025 auction by Lucknow Super Giants, but his performances haven’t matched the price tag. In 11 matches, he has scored only 128 runs, which means every single run has cost his team around $25,078 (₹21.42 lakhs). 2. Shreyas Iyer Shreyas Iyer was signed by Punjab Kings (PBKS) for $3.18 million (₹26.75 crore), and he has delivered a steady season so far. With 405 runs in 11 games, each of his runs has come at a cost of about $7,582 (₹6.70 lakhs). He’s been more consistent than most in the top-paid list and his captaincy has helped Punjab be in the top 2 of the points table. Photograph: (WION) 3. Venkatesh Iyer Venkatesh Iyer was bought for $2.83 million (₹23.75 crore), but the returns haven’t been up to his price tag. He has managed just 142 runs in 11 matches, which means every run has cost KKR $ 19,929 (₹17.02 lakhs). Also Read | Two-time Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra conferred with honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in Territorial Army 4. Jos Buttler Gujarat Titans(GT) picked Jos Buttler for $1.88 million (₹15.75 crore), and he’s proven to be worth every penny. With 500 runs in just 11 matches, each run has cost the team only $3,760 (₹ 3.21 lakhs), the best value per run among the top five expensive batters. He is just 10 runs behind the orange cap leader Suryakumar Yadav. 5. KL Rahul KL Rahul came into the season with a price tag of $1.67 million (₹14 crore). He has scored 381 runs in 10 games for Delhi Capitals. That brings his cost per run to around $4,383 (₹3.74 lakhs). As IPL 2025 nears its end, it's clear that spending big doesn’t always guarantee big returns. While some top-priced batters like Shreyas Iyer and Jos Buttler have delivered, others have struggled to match expectations for their price tag. In a tournament as competitive as the IPL, every run and every penny truly counts. Sometimes, the question should be asked: Do players fall to the pressure of high price tags?

Rs 21 lakhs per run? Shocking price tag of Top 5 expensive batters of IPL 2025 revealed. Check

See how many dollars each run has cost 5 richest batters of IPL 2025 featuring Jos Buttler, Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul and Venkatesh Iyer. Cricket | Sports | Photos

IPL 2025: Rishabh Pant's each run costs Rs. 21,42,000 to LSG - Check list of players with highest cost-to-run ratio

Cricket South Africa (CSA) has reportedly retreated on its stand of early return for Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) bound players after a high-level conversation within the board. With South Africa participating in their maiden World Test Championship (WTC) final, CSA, South Africa's apex cricketing body, had demanded that players playing in the IPL 2025 return by Ma 26. However, with the IPL 2025 rescheduled, there was an interest from certain players to stay in India to complete the season. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">CSA to retreat from policy?<o:p></o:p></h2>
"Yes, we want the Test players back on 26th, but hence I say the matter is getting finalised by higher-ups," Enoch Nkwe, the CSA Director of Cricket, clarified to Cricbuzz on Wednesday (May 14) morning. "(We) can't confirm yet until the matter is settled between the two governing bodies (CSA and BCCI)," the CSA official said. <o:p></o:p>
On Tuesday, CSA announced the squad for the WTC final against Australia, starting on June 20 at the iconic Lord&rsquo;s cricket ground. This squad includes several players representing IPL franchises and were set to return home on May 26 after completing the season. <o:p></o:p>
However, the India-Pakistan near-war situation saw the IPL extended by a week, meaning players had to make a decision to either return on the earlier deadline day of May 26 or seek an NOC from the board.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ipl-2025-bcci-scrambles-to-get-foreign-players-as-ipl-sets-for-resumption-who-will-return-and-who-wont-deets-inside-9065463" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">IPL 2025 | BCCI scrambles to get foreign players as IPL sets for resumption: Who will return and who won&rsquo;t? Deets inside</a>
While CSA was first against the extension, it seems there has been a breakthrough in the conversation, and players will stay with their franchises if they vow to. <o:p></o:p>
If this is the case and any South African player plays in the IPL 2025 scheduled for June 3, they will have only one week to prepare for the WTC final, which starts on June 11 in London. The one week period will also include travel from India to South Africa and then to England.<o:p></o:p>

Cricket South Africa (CSA) has reportedly retreated on its stand of early return for Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) bound players after a high-level meeting. World | Cricket | Sports

Cricket South Africa (CSA) has reportedly retreated on its stand of early return for Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) bound players after a high-level conversation within the board. With South Africa participating in their maiden World Test Championship (WTC) final, CSA, South Africa's apex cricketing body, had demanded that players playing in the IPL 2025 return by Ma 26. However, with the IPL 2025 rescheduled, there was an interest from certain players to stay in India to complete the season. CSA to retreat from policy? "Yes, we want the Test players back on 26th, but hence I say the matter is getting finalised by higher-ups," Enoch Nkwe, the CSA Director of Cricket, clarified to Cricbuzz on Wednesday (May 14) morning. "(We) can't confirm yet until the matter is settled between the two governing bodies (CSA and BCCI)," the CSA official said. On Tuesday, CSA announced the squad for the WTC final against Australia, starting on June 20 at the iconic Lord’s cricket ground. This squad includes several players representing IPL franchises and were set to return home on May 26 after completing the season. However, the India-Pakistan near-war situation saw the IPL extended by a week, meaning players had to make a decision to either return on the earlier deadline day of May 26 or seek an NOC from the board. ALSO READ | IPL 2025 | BCCI scrambles to get foreign players as IPL sets for resumption: Who will return and who won’t? Deets inside While CSA was first against the extension, it seems there has been a breakthrough in the conversation, and players will stay with their franchises if they vow to. If this is the case and any South African player plays in the IPL 2025 scheduled for June 3, they will have only one week to prepare for the WTC final, which starts on June 11 in London. The one week period will also include travel from India to South Africa and then to England.

Cricket South Africa to retreat on 'early' return' stand for IPL 2025-bound players - Report

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After IPL 2025 is set to resume on May 17 here are six players who could leave the season midway featuring Marco Jansen, Jos Buttler, Will Jacks, Ryan Rickelton and Jos Buttler.Photos Sports Cricket

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6 Foreign players likely to miss rescheduled IPL 2025

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6 bowlers with most wickets in IPL playoffs

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rajasthan-royals">Rajasthan Royals</a>' home cricket ground Sawai Mansingh Stadium has yet again recieved a bomd threat. Notably, this is the third threat this week that the stadium has got the threat. Considering the situation, security has been increased and the officials are on high alert.
The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/board-of-control-for-cricket-in-india">BCCI</a> and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league">IPL</a> Governing Council announced the IPL 2025 revised schedule late Monday evening (May 12). The ten-team tournament restarts on Saturday (May 17) and ends on June 3 (Sunday). The remainder of the tournament, suspended last Friday (May 9) due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, will be played across six venues - Bengaluru, Jaipur, Delhi, Lucknow, Mumbai and Ahmedabad, hosting 17 matches in total, including four playoff games.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/murray-quits-as-djokovics-coach-as-partnership-fails-to-serve-any-aces-9064708">Murray quits as Djokovic's coach as partnership fails to serve any aces</a>
<h2>'Authorities acted swiftly to address threat'</h2>
As per the police, a threat to bomb the stadium was sent through an email on Tuesday, May 13. Earlier, similar kind of emails were received on May 8 and 12. Post getting threats, an extensive search operation was carried out in the stadium by the bomb disposal squad and the dog squad.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
VIDEO | Jaipur's Sawai Mansingh Stadium receives bomb threat mail. Here's what Additional SP Lalit Sharma said on this: "We have safely evacuated everyone - staff, officials, and players. Entry will now be allowed only after thorough frisking. A dog squad and bomb disposal team&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/mHyyWeIGAF">pic.twitter.com/mHyyWeIGAF</a>
&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1921878219151802879?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2025</a></blockquote>

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"The authorities acted swiftly to address the threat, and the stadium premises were vacated immediately. The Bomb Disposal Squad, with the help of the Dog Squad, is investigating the matter. The mail was sent to the official email ID of the Sports Council. Acting on this, the stadium was vacated. The Bomb Disposal Squad, with the help of the Dog Squad, is conducting an investigation", Additional SP Lalit Sharma, was quoted saying to ANI.
Meanwhile, Rajasthan State Sports Council President, Neeraj A Pawan, said, "We received a bomb threat through email. The mail was then sent to the Police Commissioner. The bomb disposal squad and frisking team have arrived here...The investigation is underway. The stadium has been completely evacuated", he was quoted saying to ANI.

India News, Sports: The remainder of the tournament will be played across six venues - Bengaluru, Jaipur, Delhi, Lucknow, Mumbai and Ahmedabad

Rajasthan Royals' home cricket ground Sawai Mansingh Stadium has yet again recieved a bomd threat. Notably, this is the third threat this week that the stadium has got the threat. Considering the situation, security has been increased and the officials are on high alert. The BCCI and the IPL Governing Council announced the IPL 2025 revised schedule late Monday evening (May 12). The ten-team tournament restarts on Saturday (May 17) and ends on June 3 (Sunday). The remainder of the tournament, suspended last Friday (May 9) due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, will be played across six venues - Bengaluru, Jaipur, Delhi, Lucknow, Mumbai and Ahmedabad, hosting 17 matches in total, including four playoff games. Also Read: Murray quits as Djokovic's coach as partnership fails to serve any aces 'Authorities acted swiftly to address threat' As per the police, a threat to bomb the stadium was sent through an email on Tuesday, May 13. Earlier, similar kind of emails were received on May 8 and 12. Post getting threats, an extensive search operation was carried out in the stadium by the bomb disposal squad and the dog squad. VIDEO | Jaipur's Sawai Mansingh Stadium receives bomb threat mail. Here's what Additional SP Lalit Sharma said on this: "We have safely evacuated everyone - staff, officials, and players. Entry will now be allowed only after thorough frisking. A dog squad and bomb disposal team… pic.twitter.com/mHyyWeIGAF — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 12, 2025 "The authorities acted swiftly to address the threat, and the stadium premises were vacated immediately. The Bomb Disposal Squad, with the help of the Dog Squad, is investigating the matter. The mail was sent to the official email ID of the Sports Council. Acting on this, the stadium was vacated. The Bomb Disposal Squad, with the help of the Dog Squad, is conducting an investigation", Additional SP Lalit Sharma, was quoted saying to ANI. Meanwhile, Rajasthan State Sports Council President, Neeraj A Pawan, said, "We received a bomb threat through email. The mail was then sent to the Police Commissioner. The bomb disposal squad and frisking team have arrived here...The investigation is underway. The stadium has been completely evacuated", he was quoted saying to ANI.

IPL 2025: Jaipur's Sawai Mansingh stadium gets third bomb threat in a week

Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium is likely to host the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) final as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) considers its options. According to reports on Tuesday, the BCCI is mulling its options as the 125,000 capacity stadium is the top priority to host the IPL 2025 final, along with the Qualifier 2. This report comes a day after the BCCI announced a rearranged schedule for the IPL 2025, which was at a halt due to near-war tensions between India and Pakistan.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Narendra Modi Stadium to host final?</h2>
According to a prominent report from Cricbuzz, the BCCI has shortlisted Ahmedabad for the Qualifier 2 and the IPL 2025 final. The venue if given the hosting rights for the final will host it for the third time since 2022. In IPL 2022, Gujarat Titans defeated Rajasthan Royals in the final while in 2023 the final was played over two days after rain played spoilsport.
The Qualifier 2 and the IPL 2025 final were initially set to take place in Kolkata&rsquo;s Eden Gardens, but the Indo-Pak war situation saw the IPL come to a halt on Friday (May 9). Hyderabad, on the other hand, was set to host the Eliminator and Qualifier 1 match.
The report also adds that Mumbai&rsquo;s Wankhede Stadium is favourite to host the Eliminator and Qualifier 1 match. However, the final decision will hinge on the BCCI as it explores its options for the Playoffs. Earlier reports suggested, Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Chennai were front-runners to host the remaining 16 matches of the IPL 2025.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-releases-ipl-2025-revised-schedule-tournament-to-restart-on-may-17-final-in-june-9062057" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BCCI releases IPL 2025 revised schedule, tournament to restart on May 17, final in June</a>
However, on Monday evening, BCCI announced six venues to host the remaining 12 matches in the league stage, including Delhi, Jaipur and Lucknow. Bengaluru, Mumbai and Ahmedabad are the other venues to host the league stage matches.
The IPL 2025 will resume from May 17 with Royal Challengers Bengaluru facing Kolkata Knight Riders in Bengaluru. The Playoffs will start from May 29, while the final will take place on June 3 as per the rearranged schedule.

According to reports on Tuesday, the BCCI is mulling its options as the 125,000 capacity stadium is the top priority to host the IPL final, along with the Qualifier 2. India News | Cricket | Sports

Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium is likely to host the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) final as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) considers its options. According to reports on Tuesday, the BCCI is mulling its options as the 125,000 capacity stadium is the top priority to host the IPL 2025 final, along with the Qualifier 2. This report comes a day after the BCCI announced a rearranged schedule for the IPL 2025, which was at a halt due to near-war tensions between India and Pakistan. Narendra Modi Stadium to host final? According to a prominent report from Cricbuzz, the BCCI has shortlisted Ahmedabad for the Qualifier 2 and the IPL 2025 final. The venue if given the hosting rights for the final will host it for the third time since 2022. In IPL 2022, Gujarat Titans defeated Rajasthan Royals in the final while in 2023 the final was played over two days after rain played spoilsport. The Qualifier 2 and the IPL 2025 final were initially set to take place in Kolkata’s Eden Gardens, but the Indo-Pak war situation saw the IPL come to a halt on Friday (May 9). Hyderabad, on the other hand, was set to host the Eliminator and Qualifier 1 match. The report also adds that Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium is favourite to host the Eliminator and Qualifier 1 match. However, the final decision will hinge on the BCCI as it explores its options for the Playoffs. Earlier reports suggested, Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Chennai were front-runners to host the remaining 16 matches of the IPL 2025. ALSO READ | BCCI releases IPL 2025 revised schedule, tournament to restart on May 17, final in June However, on Monday evening, BCCI announced six venues to host the remaining 12 matches in the league stage, including Delhi, Jaipur and Lucknow. Bengaluru, Mumbai and Ahmedabad are the other venues to host the league stage matches. The IPL 2025 will resume from May 17 with Royal Challengers Bengaluru facing Kolkata Knight Riders in Bengaluru. The Playoffs will start from May 29, while the final will take place on June 3 as per the rearranged schedule.

Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium likely to host IPL 2025 final and Qualifier 2 - Report

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