IPL 2025: Franchises Allowed Temporary Replacements for Season’s Remainder
The IPL 2025 has introduced a key regulation change, allowing franchises to sign temporary replacement players for the remaining matches of the season. This move comes after the mid-season suspension due to India-Pakistan cross-border tensions.
Temporary Replacement Players Allowed in IPL 2025
With the IPL 2025 resuming on May 17, franchises now face roster challenges caused by scheduling conflicts and player withdrawals. Several overseas stars, including Jake Fraser-McGurk (Delhi Capitals) and Jamie Overton (Chennai Super Kings), have pulled out of the tournament. Consequently, the IPL governing body has updated the rules to help teams stay competitive.
Under the revised rules, IPL 2025 franchises can now sign temporary replacements until the end of the season, regardless of whether the replacements are for injuries, illnesses, or national commitments.
🚨 Delhi Capitals sign Mustafizur Rahman as replacement for Jake Fraser-McGurk
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) May 14, 2025
📸 Getty#IPL2025 #DelhiCapitals #MustafizurRahman #JakeFraserMcGurk #PlayerReplacement #CricketUpdate #WicketBuzz #T20Cricket #CricketNews #DCUpdates pic.twitter.com/K5j2QC0ImP
Replacements Not Eligible for IPL 2026 Retention
However, these temporary players will not be eligible for retention in IPL 2026. This condition ensures that franchises do not exploit the replacement rule to bypass the upcoming auction process. Instead, all temporary players must register again for the IPL 2026 player auction.
According to an official memo shared with franchises, the IPL stated that the changes were made after a reassessment of the original replacement policy.
📣 Reports: Jonny Bairstow likely to replace Will Jacks
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) May 15, 2025
if MI qualifies for IPL 2025 playoffs
📸 Getty #IPL2025 #JonnyBairstow #WillJacks #MumbaiIndians #PlayoffNews #CricketUpdate #WicketBuzz #MI #T20Cricket #CricketBuzz pic.twitter.com/pl6JTOWAcb
Earlier Replacements Remain Eligible
In contrast, players approved as replacements before the IPL 2025 suspension will remain eligible for retention. Notable signings made before the halt include Sediqullah Atal (DC), Mayank Agarwal (RCB), and the Rajasthan Royals’ duo Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Nandre Burger.
This clear distinction ensures transparency as the tournament enters a crucial final phase.
Final Word: Flexibility Comes with Conditions
While the update offers relief for teams, it also maintains fairness within the IPL 2025 player ecosystem. The temporary replacement rule ensures squads remain balanced despite withdrawals, while preventing long-term roster advantages.
