Concerns are mounting regarding the potential absence of several key players from Australia and South Africa during the IPL 2025 playoffs. With the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final set to commence on June 11, players from both nations are set to prioritize international commitments over their participation in the IPL knockout stages.

Key players to miss IPL playoffs

Australian stars Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Travis Head are expected to withdraw from the IPL playoffs to prepare for the WTC Final against South Africa at Lord’s.

Cummins and Head represent Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)Starc will plays for Delhi Capitals (DC) and Hazlewood is with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Their absence could significantly impact their respective teams as they aim for a strong finish in the tournament.

Similarly, South African players including Aiden Markram, Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen and Tristan Stubbs are also anticipated to miss crucial matches in the IPL as they shift focus towards the WTC Final.

Rabada, Jansen and Stubbs are engaged with various franchises in the IPL but will prioritize their national duties as the knockouts approaches.

Implications for IPL teams

The potential withdrawal of these prominent players poses a significant challenge for their franchises. For instance, SRH would not only lose their captain Cummins but also a key batter in Head, which could severely weaken their chances of advancing in the tournament.

Similarly, DC would miss Starc’s bowling prowess if they qualify for the playoffs.

The IPL playoffs are scheduled to take place just weeks before the WTC Final, creating a tight timeline for players who need to prepare for such a high-stakes match. The IPL has historically been a platform for players to showcase their skills, but with international commitments looming, teams may have to adjust their strategies accordingly.