IPL 2025 is set to reignite the excitement for cricket enthusiasts once again. After a week-long break, the league is scheduled to resume on May 17th. The participation of overseas players is generating the most discussion.
Sports News: The IPL is resuming on May 17th after a week-long suspension. Many foreign players returned to their home countries during the break, but most are now preparing to return to India for the second phase of the IPL. However, some players will be unavailable, particularly those participating in the World Test Championship (WTC) final for Australia and South Africa.
Gujarat Titans
The return of Jos Buttler and Gerald Coetzee is a relief for the Gujarat Titans. However, Buttler's selection for the England vs. West Indies ODI series casts doubt on his further participation. Sherfane Rutherford remains in India and will play the remaining matches. Rashid Khan, Karim Janat, and Kagiso Rabada are also with the team, although Rabada may be called up for the World Test Championship final.
Royal Challengers Bangalore
RCB has faced several setbacks. Fast bowler Josh Hazlewood will be unavailable due to a shoulder injury and the WTC final. Romario Shepherd's unavailability is also expected. The return of England's Jacob Bethell and South Africa's Lungi Ngidi is uncertain. Therefore, RCB will have to rely heavily on domestic players to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Delhi Capitals
Mitchell Starc's absence is a significant blow to the Delhi Capitals. Starc has returned to Australia, and his return is unlikely. The unavailability of Jake Fraser and Tristan Stubbs could weaken both their batting and bowling lineups. The remaining overseas players are with the team, offering some relief.
Mumbai Indians
The Mumbai Indians are in a relatively better position. Most of their overseas players remain with the team. However, Will Jacks and Corbin Bosch's international commitments might keep them away from the playoff matches. Mujeeb Ur Rahman will likely play the remaining league matches.
Punjab Kings
Punjab Kings' hopes remain intact, but the situation regarding overseas players is unclear. There is uncertainty surrounding the return of Australia's Josh Inglis and Marcus Stoinis. If these two players don't return, the team will struggle to maintain balance. Marco Jansen's return is also doubtful.
Kolkata Knight Riders
KKR's Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, and Rovman Powell are currently in a Dubai camp and are preparing to return. Quinton de Kock, Enrich Nortje, and Rahmanullah Gurbaz will also join the team. The status of Moeen Ali and Spencer Johnson remains unclear.
Chennai Super Kings
CSK is out of the playoff race, but several of their overseas players may return. The return of Noor Ahmad, Dewald Brevis, Matheesha Pathirana, and Devon Conway is almost certain. Ravin Ravindra's situation is unclear. Sam Curran is likely to arrive, but Jamie Overton is selected for the England team and will not return.
Sunrisers Hyderabad
Although SRH is also out of the playoff race, their overseas players are returning. Captain Pat Cummins and opener Travis Head have agreed to return. Heinrich Klaasen, Kamindu Mendis, and Ashen Mendis will also be with the team.
