IPL 2025Chennai Super KingsCricket UpdatesDelhi CapitalsGujarat TitansICC UpdatesIndian Cricket UpdatesInjury UpdatesIPLIPL NewsIPL UpdatesKolkata Knight RidersLucknow Super GiantsPunjab KingsRajasthan RoyalsRoyal Challengers BengaluruSunrisers Hyderabad
IPL 2025 Resumes: Full Team-wise Player Return and Replacement Breakdown
As the Indian Premier League 2025 returns after a mid-season break, franchises are adjusting their squads with a mix of returning internationals, injury setbacks, and strategic replacements. With the league approaching its final stretch, every change could have a significant impact on playoff qualifications. Below is a comprehensive, team-wise breakdown of who’s back, who’s missing, and who’s stepping in.
Gujarat Titans: Buttler Returns, Mendis Signed for Playoffs
The Gujarat Titans have received a boost with the return of Jos Buttler and Kagiso Rabada. However, Buttler, the former England captain, will only be available until the Titans’ final league game against Chennai Super Kings on May 25.
To fill the gap in the playoffs, should they qualify, the franchise has roped in Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batter Kusal Mendis for INR 75 lakh. Rabada’s presence strengthens the Titans’ bowling lineup as they look to seal a top-four finish.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: English Core Back, Hazlewood Expected Soon
Royal Challengers Bengaluru confirmed the arrival of England’s Phil Salt, Liam Livingstone, and Jacob Bethell ahead of their crucial clash with Kolkata Knight Riders on May 17. Also returning to the lineup is West Indies all-rounder Romario Shepherd, who played a key role in RCB’s victory over CSK earlier in the season.
According to internal sources, Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood is recovering from a shoulder injury and is likely to rejoin the squad in time for the playoffs.
Delhi Capitals: Starc Out, Mustafizur Awaiting Clearance
Delhi Capitals have signed Mustafizur Rahman as a replacement for Jake Fraser-McGurk. However, Mustafizur has not yet arrived in India and is currently in the UAE with the Bangladesh national team, awaiting a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
In a significant blow, Mitchell Starc has formally informed DC management that he will not be returning for the remainder of the season. On the brighter side, team mentor Kevin Pietersen is back with the squad to provide strategic support.
Kolkata Knight Riders: Powell and Moeen Miss Out
Kolkata Knight Riders have confirmed that all their players and staff have reached Bengaluru ahead of their match against RCB, except Rovman Powell and Moeen Ali. The franchise stated that Powell is undergoing a medical procedure, while Moeen and his family are recovering from a viral infection.
This leaves a temporary gap in KKR’s middle-order strength, although the rest of the squad is in full training ahead of the fixture.
Punjab Kings: Jamieson in for Ferguson, Trio Awaiting Confirmation
Punjab Kings have signed New Zealand’s Kyle Jamieson for INR 2 crore as a replacement for Lockie Ferguson, who sustained a hamstring injury against Sunrisers Hyderabad and has been ruled out of the season.
Marcus Stoinis, Aaron Hardie, and Josh Inglis have not yet confirmed their availability for the remaining matches. There is optimism within the PBKS camp, led by head coach Ricky Ponting, that the trio could return after the team’s first post-break game on May 18 in Jaipur.
Mitch Owen and Xavier Bartlett have also joined the squad to add depth and flexibility.
Lucknow Super Giants: O’Rourke Replaces Mayank Yadav
Lucknow Super Giants have made a key replacement by signing New Zealand fast bowler William O’Rourke for INR 3 crore. He comes in for Mayank Yadav, who has been ruled out due to a back injury. The management sees O’Rourke as a like-for-like replacement to maintain pace and aggression in the bowling department.
Sunrisers Hyderabad: Head and Cummins to Join in Lucknow
The Australian duo of Travis Head and Pat Cummins will join the Sunrisers Hyderabad camp directly in Lucknow ahead of their clash against Lucknow Super Giants on May 19. Their arrival is crucial for SRH’s playoff hopes, as both have been standout performers this season.
Related: IPL 2025 Points Table and Team Standings
Rajasthan Royals: Archer Ruled Out
Rajasthan Royals have confirmed that English pacer Jofra Archer will not rejoin the squad for their final two league games. Archer’s absence will be a significant blow to their pace department, especially in the business end of the season.
Chennai Super Kings: No Return for Curran and Overton
Chennai Super Kings, who are already eliminated from playoff contention, will not see the return of English players Sam Curran and Jamie Overton. The franchise also confirmed that no temporary replacements will be sought.
Despite their early exit, CSK is expected to experiment with their bench strength in the remaining matches.
Replacements Permitted Under Special Circumstances
Given the exceptional nature of the restart, the IPL has permitted franchises to sign temporary or injury replacements outside of the traditional window. This move ensures team balance and maintains the competitive nature of the tournament.
External Source: IPL Player Regulations – ESPNcricinfo
