IPL 2025: Majority of Overseas Stars Set to Return as Tournament Resumes
Welcome to the latest chapter of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, where the excitement is set to reignite after a week-long suspension due to cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan. As the tournament resumes on Saturday, May 17, cricket fans around the globe are buzzing with anticipation as most overseas players prepare to rejoin their respective franchises, barring a few key absences from Australian and English contingents.
Return of the Big Guns
In a significant boost for fans and teams alike, several marquee international players have confirmed their availability for the remainder of the IPL season. According to credible sources, Pat Cummins, the Australian captain and leader of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), will return alongside explosive opener Travis Head. Cummins, who is also slated to lead Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s from June 11, has prioritized his IPL commitments for now. However, despite their return, SRH’s playoff hopes remain dim, with the team already out of contention and only two matches left in their campaign.
Full Strength Squads: MI, GT, and KKR Ready to Dominate
Among the franchises best positioned to capitalize on the return of overseas talent are Mumbai Indians (MI), Gujarat Titans (GT), and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). All three teams are expected to field full-strength squads as the league resumes. MI, under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, held their first training session at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on Tuesday, following the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announcement of the tournament’s resumption. Key overseas players like Mitchell Santner, Bevon Jacobs, and Mujeeb Ur Rahman were present, having stayed back during the break. Additional reinforcements, including England’s Will Jacks and wicketkeeper Ryan Rickelton, are set to arrive by Thursday, just in time for MI’s clash against Delhi Capitals on May 21.
Similarly, Gujarat Titans are gearing up for a strong finish. Former England white-ball captain Jos Buttler and South African pacer Gerald Coetzee are expected to join the squad on Wednesday, while stalwarts like Rashid Khan, Kagiso Rabada, and Sherfane Rutherford remained in India during the hiatus. GT, with a strong standing on the points table, are well-poised for a playoff berth.
Uncertainty Looms Over RR, RCB, and PBKS
While some teams rejoice, others face challenges. Rajasthan Royals (RR) have been hit hard by the news that their bowling coach, Shane Bond, is “highly unlikely” to return for the remainder of the tournament, as confirmed by reliable sources. The Royals also face uncertainty over the availability of England’s fast bowling sensation Jofra Archer, who has been selected for the England vs. West Indies ODI series starting May 29, and West Indies batter Shimron Hetmyer.
Elsewhere, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) are grappling with significant absences. Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood of RCB is sidelined due to injury, while compatriot Mitchell Starc has confirmed he will skip the remainder of the tournament. PBKS, on the other hand, are unsure about the return of Australian duo Josh Inglis and Marcus Stoinis, with Inglis also named in the Australian squad for the WTC final. South African pace all-rounder Marco Jansen remains stationed in Dubai, adding to the team’s woes.
Playoff Venue Race Heats Up
In other developments, the race to host the IPL 2025 playoff matches is intensifying. A reliable BCCI source revealed that Delhi has emerged as a strong contender to host the four playoff ties, alongside Ahmedabad—the likely venue for the final—and Mumbai. The decision to move the final away from Kolkata was influenced by forecasts of heavy rain around June 3, the originally scheduled date. Current weather predictions for Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and Delhi appear favorable, ensuring minimal disruptions for the climactic stages of the tournament.
Closing Thoughts: IPL Set for a Thrilling Finish
As the IPL 2025 prepares to resume, the return of overseas stars promises to elevate the competition to new heights. With powerhouses like MI, GT, and KKR back at full strength, and other teams battling uncertainties, the road to the playoffs is fraught with excitement and unpredictability. Will the returning players turn the fortunes of their teams? Can Delhi secure the hosting rights for the playoffs? Stay tuned as we bring you every update from the world’s most electrifying T20 league!