South Africa players likely to leave before IPL playoffs as they prepare for the World Test Championship (WTC) final. As per initial NOCs, eight South African cricketers playing in IPL 2025 will depart India by May 25.
This decision could impact teams such as GT, PBKS, RCB, and DC. Their key players may not be available for the crucial playoff matches.
CSA Maintains May 25 as Final Return Date
CSA has remained firm on the May 25 deadline. Coach Shukri Conrad confirmed that the board wants players back in South Africa by May 26. This gives them enough rest before they fly to England on May 30.
He added that discussions are ongoing between CSA and the BCCI. However, the board still expects players to stick to the original plan. South Africa players likely to leave before IPL playoffs is a topic creating tension between the two cricket boards.
🚨 Eight South African players in the WTC squad
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) May 15, 2025
set to leave IPL and return by May 17
📸 Getty#IPL2025 #WTCFinal #SouthAfricaCricket #PlayerExit #CricketUpdate #WicketBuzz #T20League #CricketNews #IPLPlayoffs #TeamChanges pic.twitter.com/26M8I2Iaka
Talks Between CSA and BCCI Continue
CSA director Enoch Nkwe stated that final decisions lie with each player. Still, the board has made its preference clear. They want all Test players back in time for the WTC preparations.
The WTC warm-up match against Zimbabwe starts on June 3, the same day as the IPL final. The WTC final is scheduled from June 11 to 15.
IPL 2025 Teams May Miss Key South African Players
Franchises like GT and PBKS could lose Rabada and Jansen for the playoffs. DC and RCB may also be affected. South Africa players likely to leave before IPL playoffs is a serious blow for IPL teams aiming for the title.
This situation puts added pressure on franchises to rethink their game plans in the final stages of IPL 2025.
