Published By: Sanchari Das

THESE South African Stars Could Leave IPL 2025 Teams in Chaos Before Playoffs!

IPL teams scramble for solutions as South African stars eye WTC preparations over playoffs

The IPL 2025 season could face a major shake-up. South African cricketers, crucial to several franchises, might withdraw early to prepare for the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia on June 11 at Lord’s. With the IPL final scheduled for May 25, the Proteas players only have 15 days to gear up for the global event. Franchises like Gujarat Titans (GT), Delhi Capitals (DC), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Mumbai Indians (MI), and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are bracing for impact.

South Africa’s Test dominance brings IPL trouble

South Africa’s Test team has been stellar, clinching series wins against Sri Lanka and Pakistan. Temba Bavuma’s men now top the WTC standings, making their Lord’s final appearance all but certain. But their success spells potential disaster for IPL franchises. Seven key Proteas players, integral to their IPL teams, are also core members of the Test squad. This creates a dilemma as these stars are expected to prioritise national duties over franchise commitments.

Double blow for Gujarat Titans

Gujarat Titans could be the hardest hit if South African players leave early. Kagiso Rabada and Gerald Coetzee, both pivotal to GT’s bowling attack, were prized acquisitions in the IPL 2025 auction. Their exit before the playoffs would leave Mohammed Siraj as the lone spearhead in the pace department. This would be a major setback for a team aiming to repeat its championship run.

Tristian Stubbs could hurt Delhi Capitals

Delhi Capitals also face uncertainty with Tristian Stubbs. A retained player from IPL 2024, Stubbs has become one of DC’s most reliable finishers. However, he’s now a crucial part of South Africa’s Test XI. Should he leave early, DC’s middle order could crumble under playoff pressure.

Mumbai Indians’ top order at risk

Mumbai Indians might lose Ryan Rickelton, a rising star who’s part of South Africa’s Test setup. Acquired at his base price, Rickelton has bolstered MI’s batting lineup. His withdrawal could destabilise their top order just when the stakes are highest.

Key players likely to withdraw

South African players such as Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, and Ryan Rickelton are likely to leave IPL 2025 early. Marco Jansen, now with Punjab Kings for a hefty ₹7 crore, is a match-winner with both bat and ball. Rabada’s pace and experience are irreplaceable for GT, while Rickelton’s exit could significantly weaken MI.

RCB, LSG, and PBKS face challenges

Royal Challengers Bangalore might lose Lungi Ngidi, compounding their playoff woes, as Josh Hazlewood is also expected to leave early. Lucknow Super Giants will miss Aiden Markram’s explosive batting, while Punjab Kings could feel the absence of Marco Jansen. These departures will test the depth and resilience of these franchises.

BCCI regulations and player commitments

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has strict rules regarding player commitments. Players who sign up for the IPL but withdraw before the season risk bans from future auctions. However, early withdrawals for national duty have often been granted exceptions. This situation might spark debates on balancing franchise and international cricket.

A tough road ahead for IPL teams

As the IPL 2025 playoffs approach, franchises like GT, DC, MI, RCB, and LSG might have to reshuffle strategies. Losing South African stars at a crucial juncture could disrupt team dynamics and tilt the competition. While South Africa’s success in Tests is commendable, IPL teams face an uphill battle.

The storm is brewing. Teams now need contingency plans to weather this potential exodus and keep their title hopes alive.