The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has been one of the most exciting seasons in recent years. With close finishes, rising talents, and star performances, fans have been thoroughly entertained. But as the playoffs approach, several teams are facing major setbacks. A number of overseas players are likely to miss the playoffs due to international cricket duties or uncertainty following the recent pause in the league caused by political tensions.
Here’s a list of key overseas players set to miss the crucial playoff matches:
1. Jos Buttler (England- Gujarat Titans): England’s white-ball captain Jos Buttler will be unavailable for the IPL playoffs. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has called their players back by May 25 to prepare for the home ODI series against the West Indies, starting on May 29. Buttler’s absence is a big blow to Gujarat Titans, as he has been one of their most consistent hitters this season.
2. Will Jacks (England- Mumbai Indians): MI’s dynamic opener, hitter Will jacks is set to return to England. Jacks played a crucial role in MI matches, giving good starts to the team. But he had national duties calling, he will leave a big gap in their batting order.
3. Ryan Rickelton (South Africa- Mumbai Indians): The left-handed batter has impressed everybody, Played a key role for MI in the opening. Selected for national duty, Rickelton might note be coming back and miss the final IPL stages.
4. Philip Salt (England- Royal Challengers Bengaluru): Most important player of RCB. Salt opens for RCB, he has given a good start in every match for RCB, a very consistent player. Salt played a key role for Bengaluru’s playoff qualification push. But he has to go for national duties and it will impact RCB’s batting order.
5. Josh Hazelwood (Australia- Royal Challengers Bengaluru): Although not officially confirmed, Australian pacer Josh Hazelwood is likely to miss playoffs. Australia are preparing for the WTC finals as well, and Hazelwood is part of the squad. RCB will feel his absence in the death overs.
6. Mitchel Starc (Australia- Delhi Capitals): Starc has returned to Australia during the IPL’s brief suspension and is reportedly unsure about coming back for the rest of the tournament. If he skips the playoffs, it would be a major setback for Delhi Capitals, who rely on his experience in big games.
Also read: Will Virat and Rohit’s retirement open the door for Pujara or Rahane in India’s tour of England?
7. Marco Jansen ( South Africa- Punjab Kings): A key pace-bowling all-rounder, Jansen won’t be coming for the playoffs, he has to prepare for the WTC Final. His ability to swing the ball and score lower-order runs will be missed.
8. Kagiso Rabada (South Africa- Gujarat Titans): The experienced fast bowler has led Gujarat’s pace attack. Although he had missed most of the matches, his experience would have helped Gujarat’s bowling attack in the playoffs. Rabada will also exit before the playoffs.
9. Tristan Stubbs (South Africa- Delhi Capitals): Stubbs, known for his power-hitting in the middle order, Key player for DC. He is in South Africa’s Test plans and might not come for the rest of the match, as he has to prepare for the WTC finals. It would cause trouble for DC.
10. Pat Cummins (Australia- Sunrisers Hyderabad): He is captain of SRH, although he has not confirmed anything yet. SRH is out of the playoffs so it won’t cause trouble for the rest of the matches.
What It Means for the Teams
Franchises like Gujarat Titans, RCB, PBKS, MI and Delhi Capitals now face big challenges. They will have to reshuffle their squads and possibly bring in Indian uncapped players or less experienced overseas replacements. For teams that heavily depend on foreign stars, this could impact their performance in high-pressure matches. While the IPL is known for adapting to challenges, the loss of key overseas players during the playoffs will certainly change the tournament’s dynamic. It also opens up opportunities for domestic talents to step up and make a mark when it matters the most. Fans can still expect thrilling contests, but the absence of big international names will be felt.
Written by Kinjal Walantra
