As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 gears up for resumption following the India-Pakistan ceasefire, franchises are facing uncertainty over the availability of several star overseas players. While efforts are underway to recall foreign cricketers, some may opt out due to injuries, international commitments, or personal concerns.
Key Overseas Players Who Might Not Return
Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
- Moeen Ali (England) – Expected to remain in England for T20 Blast preparations.
- Matheesha Pathirana (Sri Lanka) – Nursing a shoulder injury, unlikely to return.
Mumbai Indians (MI)
- Mujeeb Ur Rahman (Afghanistan) – May prioritize national duties over IPL.
- Reece Topley (England) – Uncertain due to fitness concerns.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
- Josh Hazlewood (Australia) – Struggling with a shoulder injury, doubtful for IPL return.
- Romario Shepherd (West Indies) – Might opt out due to West Indies’ international schedule.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
- Spencer Johnson (Australia) – Unlikely to return as KKR is out of playoff contention.
- Quinton de Kock (South Africa) – May remain in South Africa for national commitments.
Punjab Kings (PBKS)
- Marco Jansen (South Africa) – Expected to skip IPL Phase 2 due to personal reasons.
- Lockie Ferguson (New Zealand) – Already ruled out due to injury.
Gujarat Titans (GT)
- Jos Buttler (England) – Left India post-suspension, uncertain about return.
- Gerald Coetzee (South Africa) – Efforts are being made to bring him back.
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
- Mitchell Marsh (Australia) – May opt out due to personal safety concerns.
Delhi Capitals (DC)
- Mitchell Starc (Australia) – Likely to skip IPL resumption, citing fatigue and national duties.
- Jake Fraser-McGurk (Australia) – Out of form, may not return.
Rajasthan Royals (RR)
- Jofra Archer (England) – Unlikely to travel back as RR is out of playoff contention.
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
- Pat Cummins (Australia) – Expected to remain in Australia for World Test Championship (WTC) final preparations.
- Heinrich Klaasen (South Africa) – Uncertain due to CSA’s NOC deadline.
Franchises Brace for Uncertainty
With the IPL Governing Council finalizing the revised schedule, teams are strategizing their player replacements and bench strength. While some franchises are pushing for their overseas stars to return, others may focus on domestic talent for the remainder of the tournament.
