Multiple International Players Set to Depart Ahead of IPL 2025 Playoffs Due to National Commitments
New Delhi, May 15 – England T20 captain Jos Buttler will leave the Gujarat Titans camp after their final three league matches, as the Indian Premier League (IPL) playoffs overlap with England’s white-ball series against the West Indies beginning May 29.Gujarat Titans, currently sitting strong with 16 points from 11 matches, are poised for a top-two finish. Their final league fixtures include matches against Delhi Capitals (May 18), Lucknow Super Giants (May 22), and Chennai Super Kings (May 25). As per reports, Sri Lankan left-hander Kusal Mendis is expected to replace Buttler during the playoff stage.
Other English Players to Miss Playoffs
Several other England cricketers are also expected to miss the knockout phase. Moeen Ali (KKR), Jofra Archer (RR), Sam Curran, and Jamie Overton (both CSK) will not be returning. KKR confirmed that Moeen Ali’s absence is due to a viral infection affecting him and his family, while Rovman Powell also remains unavailable due to a medical procedure.Virat Kohli Returns to RCB Camp; Livingstone and David Join
In other developments, Virat Kohli, who recently announced his retirement from Test cricket, has rejoined the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) camp. England all-rounder Liam Livingstone and Australian power-hitter Tim David have also returned to bolster the squad for the remainder of the tournament.Mustafizur Rahman's DC Stint Uncertain Over NOC Delay
Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman's participation for Delhi Capitals remains uncertain. Although signed as a replacement for Jake Fraser-McGurk, Mustafizur has not yet received a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Bangladesh Cricket Board. He is currently in the UAE, scheduled to play five T20Is against UAE and Pakistan from May 17 to 30. Delhi Capitals are optimistic about resolving the matter with support from the BCCI.Marco Jansen to Exit After League Matches
South African pacer Marco Jansen will rejoin the Punjab Kings only for the league matches. He is required to report to the national squad by May 26 for preparations ahead of the World Test Championship final against Australia.The IPL final, scheduled initially earlier, has been pushed to June 3 following a week-long suspension caused by escalating military tensions between India and Pakistan.
