The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, which was put on hold because of rising tensions between India and Pakistan, is now set to restart on May 17 after a ceasefire agreement was reached. However, the resumption comes with complications for Australian players, especially with the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final against South Africa scheduled from June 11 to 15 at Lord’s Cricket Ground in London.
Cricket Australia Stance
Cricket Australia (CA) has stated that it will respect and support each player’s personal choice about taking part in the remaining IPL matches. In a statement, CA emphasized that player safety and well-being are most important, and it is in ongoing communication with the Australian Government and the The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is focused on providing proper security. “Cricket Australia will support players in their individual decisions whether to return to India or not“ Cricket Australia mentioned.
Players Decisions Amid Tight Schedules
The revised IPL schedule now concludes on June 3, leaving Australian players with just over a week to prepare for the WTC Final. This tight turnaround has led to uncertainty among players. It’s believed that Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood won’t rejoin the IPL this season, whereas Pat Cummins, Travis Head, and Josh Inglis have yet to make up their minds.
Players still active in the ongoing IPL include Josh Hazlewood (Royal Challengers Bengaluru), Mitchell Starc (Delhi Capitals), and Pat Cummins and Travis Head (Sunrisers Hyderabad). Since Sunrisers Hyderabad are out of the playoff race, the decision to stay or leave becomes more crucial for players from RCB and DC, as both teams are still competing for a top-four spot.
Josh Hazelwood is key player for RCB as he strenghten’s their bowling attack, if he doesn’t returns RCB might face problem ahead in the playoffs. Even Mitchell Starc plays a major role in DC bowling attack, if he doesn’t return it will cause DC a trouble in the playoffs. It is going to be very tough for Aussies for choose.
Meanwhile, former Australian cricketers now working as coaches and commentators, Justin Langer, Ricky Ponting, and Matthew Hayden are also weighing a return, although travel logistics continue to pose a challenge.
Also read: IPL 2025 to Resume on May 17 and Final Set for June; Check Full Revised Schedule
Balancing Commitments
With the WTC Final being a significant event, players are weighing the importance of national duties against franchise commitments. CA has assured that it will assist players in managing their preparation for the WTC Final, regardless of their decision about the IPL.
“Team management will work through the preparation implications for the World Test Championship final for those players who choose to play in the remaining IPL matches,” Cricket Australia stated.
As the IPL 2025 season prepares to resume, Australian players face a challenging decision. Cricket Australia’s support stance allows players to make choices based on personal comfort and professional priorities. In the days ahead, it will become clear which players choose to focus fully on the upcoming WTC Final and who decide to return to the IPL despite tight schedules and safety concerns.
Written by Kinjal Walantra
