Overview

• Mitchell Starc has confirmed he will not return to the IPL 2025, citing safety concerns and a focus on the upcoming World Test Championship final.
• The IPL is set to resume on May 17 with a condensed schedule after a week-long suspension due to India-Pakistan border tensions.
• The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has allowed franchises to sign temporary replacements for players who have opted out.
• Starc’s withdrawal could cost him a significant portion of his A$2.1 million contract and impacts Delhi Capitals’ playoff aspirations.
• Other Australian players, including Pat Cummins and Travis Head, will return, while some, like Josh Inglis and Jake Fraser-McGurk, remain undecided or have also opted out.