The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has directed all IPL franchises to release South African players by May 26. These players will not be available for the IPL playoffs as they are set to participate in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final. Additionally, BCCI has clarified that West Indies players will remain available for the remainder of the IPL.
New IPL Schedule Creating Issues for Players
Following a ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, the IPL was rescheduled to resume on May 17, with the final now set for June 3 (previously scheduled for May 25). This change has caused a clash with the international commitments of players from South Africa, England, and the West Indies. BCCI held discussions with foreign cricket boards, including Cricket South Africa (CSA), regarding player availability. However, CSA refused to compromise, citing preparations for the WTC Final against Australia starting June 11 at Lord’s.
BCCI Issues Official Communication to Teams
The South African team is scheduled to depart for the UK on May 31, while the IPL playoffs begin on May 29. Simultaneously, England will also begin a white-ball series at home against the West Indies on the same date. In an official communication to teams, the BCCI stated, “South African players must return to their country by Monday, May 26. West Indies players will be available throughout the tournament.”
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South African Players to Miss IPL Playoffs
The absence of key South African players could impact teams vying for playoff spots. The unavailable players include:
- Tristan Stubbs (Delhi Capitals)
- Wiaan Mulder (Sunrisers Hyderabad)
- Kagiso Rabada (Gujarat Titans)
- Corbin Bosch (Mumbai Indians)
- Ryan Rickelton (Mumbai Indians)
- Marco Jansen (Punjab Kings)
- Lungi Ngidi (Royal Challengers Bangalore)
- Aiden Markram (Lucknow Super Giants)
Their departure may significantly affect team strategies during the crucial final stages of the tournament.
