IPL franchises might face problems as international cricket schedules clash with the league’s restart. South Africa has asked its players to return by May 26 for the World Test Championship (WTC) final. This affects teams like the Gujarat Titans and the Punjab Kings. Also, England’s ODI series against the West Indies, starting May 29, could impact Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
South Africa’s coach, Shukri Conrad, stated that their agreement with IPL and BCCI was for players to return by May 26. They are not changing this. Eight South African players in the WTC final squad play in the IPL. These include Ryan Rickelton (Mumbai Indians), Kagiso Rabada (Gujarat Titans), and Marco Jansen (Punjab Kings). South Africa will reach England on May 31 and play a practice match from June 3. So, their players are unlikely to play in the IPL playoffs.
Cricket Australia (CA) has left the decision to the players. They will plan preparation for those who choose to play the rest of the IPL. While Pat Cummins and Travis Head (SRH) will likely return, Josh Hazlewood (RCB) will probably miss the final IPL phase.
England players selected for the ODI series against West Indies are expected to leave India before the IPL playoffs. These players include Jos Buttler (Titans), Will Jacks (Mumbai), and Jacob Bethell (Royal Challengers). This creates last-minute issues for their teams aiming for the top four.
How teams could be affected:
- Gujarat Titans: May miss Jos Buttler (key batter) and Kagiso Rabada (important bowler). Sherfane Rutherford’s availability is also uncertain.
- Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Might lose Jacob Bethell and Josh Hazlewood (key bowler). Romario Shepherd has rejoined the team.
- Punjab Kings: Could be without Marco Jansen (best overseas player) and possibly Marcus Stoinis.
- Mumbai Indians: May not have Ryan Rickelton (key opener) and Will Jacks.
- Delhi Capitals: Jake Fraser-McGurk has already left. Tristan Stubbs’s availability is uncertain. Mitchell Starc has also pulled out.
- Kolkata Knight Riders, Lucknow Super Giants: May face some issues with player availability.
- Sunrisers Hyderabad, Rajasthan Royals, Chennai Super Kings: Already eliminated.
Also Read: IPL 2025 Season New Schedule
The clash in schedules presents a foreign IPL player availability for playoffs. They need to decide whether to prioritize international duty or stay for the IPL playoffs. This situation forces IPL franchises to make quick adjustments to their team strategies.
