The Indian Premier League (IPL) returns under pressure as foreign stars pull out—teams scramble to fill gaps with short-term signings.
The IPL event is back this Saturday—but not without turbulence. Following the India-Pakistan conflict and a revised schedule, several international stars have dropped out, forcing the league to greenlight temporary player replacements for the remainder of the season.
Big names like Jamie Overton (England) and Jake Fraser-McGurk (Australia) have opted out, with Overton committed to England’s ODI series against West Indies and Fraser-McGurk citing personal reasons. Mustafizur Rahman has been signed by Delhi as a late replacement.
In a rare move, the IPL informed franchises that these replacements can play but won’t be eligible for retention next season. All will need to enter the 2026 auction.
The Delhi Capitals are still waiting on the return of pace ace Mitchell Starc, while Faf du Plessis and Tristan Stubbs remain tied up with South Africa’s World Test Championship squad. The final clash between South Africa and Australia at Lord’s starts on June 11.
The league resumes with a bang: RCB vs KKR in a high-stakes showdown in Bengaluru, kicking off the final 13 games of the season.
South Africa Fire Shots Ahead of WTC Final: “We’re Coming for Australia”
Proteas coach hits back at critics, defends Rabada, and declares war on the ‘Big Three’ narrative.
South Africa’s head coach Shukri Conrad isn’t holding back ahead of the WTC Final. After Australia’s Tim Paine took a jab at Kagiso Rabada’s recent drug ban, Conrad responded:
“Let he without sin cast the first stone.”
With seven wins in eight Tests, South Africa marched into the Lord’s final—past India and England—and Conrad says it’s time they got the respect they deserve.
“The ‘Big Three’? That’s just in their heads. We don’t fear anyone—Australia included.”
The coach also stood firmly behind Rabada, saying the fast bowler is mentally ready and hungry for the final.
“He’s done his time. Now it’s game time.”
The stage is set: South Africa vs Australia at Lord’s. Expect fire.