The Faf du Plessis IPL 2026 auction withdrawal shocked fans across the cricket world, as the former South Africa captain confirmed he will skip the IPL and instead participate in the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL). By announcing his decision through a heartfelt social media statement, du Plessis marked the end of a monumental IPL chapter — at least for now.
Faf du Plessis IPL 2026 Auction Withdrawal Explained
The Faf du Plessis IPL 2026 auction withdrawal came after 14 remarkable seasons in the Indian Premier League. While reflecting on the decision, du Plessis described the IPL as a league that shaped him both as a player and as a person. Moreover, he emphasised his gratitude to Indian fans, franchises, and teammates who contributed to his journey across 154 IPL matches.
Although he stepped away from the 2026 auction, he insisted the move is not a permanent goodbye. Instead, he left the door open for a return in future seasons, reinforcing his strong emotional connection with India and the IPL.
FAF BIDS GOODBYE TO IPL! 💔🇿🇦
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) November 29, 2025
After 14 glorious seasons, Faf du Plessis confirms he won’t enter the IPL auction.
He’s heading to the PSL for a new challenge! A true IPL legend.
Thank you, Faf! 🙌
📸:Getty #FafDuPlessis #IPL #PSL #CricketNews #RCB #CSK #EndOfAnEra pic.twitter.com/mjNvVDR4IM
Switch to PSL Marks a New Challenge for Du Plessis
Choosing the PSL signals a fresh direction for the veteran batter. Du Plessis confirmed that he wants to experience a new environment, highlighting Pakistan’s cricketing energy and the league’s growing depth of talent. Additionally, the PSL schedule overlaps with the IPL window, making simultaneous participation impossible. As a result, his withdrawal became inevitable once he committed to the PSL.
Even though he has played in the PSL before — appearing for Peshawar Zalmi and Quetta Gladiators between 2019 and 2021 — this marks his first full-season commitment since then. Du Plessis also expressed excitement about Pakistan’s hospitality, calling it a major reason behind his decision.
IPL Career Legacy Remains Strong Despite 2026 Withdrawal
Despite the Faf du Plessis IPL 2026 auction withdrawal, his legacy in the IPL stays intact. He remains the fourth-highest overseas run-scorer in tournament history and a two-time champion with Chennai Super Kings. Furthermore, his 2025 season with Delhi Capitals featured 202 runs and a brief captaincy stint, although the franchise released him ahead of the new auction.
Multiple IPL teams valued his leadership and consistency across stints with CSK, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, DC, and Rising Pune Supergiants. Nevertheless, du Plessis opted for a new challenge rather than another IPL season.
