The Indian Premier League is resuming on May 17, with the first match featuring Royal Challengers Bengaluru against Kolkata Knight Riders. This match could determine the first team to make it to the playoffs for Season 18. Currently, seven teams are still in the running for a playoff spot.
However, a twist is emerging that could impact some of these teams. The South African Cricket Board has reportedly convinced the BCCI to allow eight of their players, who are part of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final squad, to leave the IPL before the playoffs.
Which Players Are Leaving?
The eight South African players who will be leaving the IPL before the playoffs are:
- Kagiso Rabada (Gujarat Titans)
- Aiden Markram (Lucknow Super Giants)
- Marco Jansen (Punjab Kings)
- Tristan Stubbs (Delhi Capitals)
- Lungi Ngidi (Royal Challengers Bengaluru)
- Wiaan Mulder (Sunrisers Hyderabad)
- Ryan Rickelton (Mumbai Indians)
- Corbin Bosch (Mumbai Indians)
The WTC Final is set to take place at Lord’s Cricket Ground starting June 11, with South Africa facing off against Australia. The South African cricket board has asked these players to return home by May 27.
Impact on IPL Teams
This news is particularly concerning for teams like Mumbai Indians, who are strong contenders for the playoffs. They’ve won 7 out of 12 matches and have a better net run rate than several other teams, including Gujarat Titans, who are currently at the top. Losing Ryan Rickelton and Corbin Bosch could be a significant blow.
Other teams that will be affected include Punjab Kings, who have been benefiting from Marco Jansen’s impressive performance, and Delhi Capitals, who rely heavily on Tristan Stubbs.
The IPL schedule was adjusted due to its temporary suspension, pushing the final to June 3. Initially, the South African board had planned to gather their players by May 26, with the team heading to England on May 30. Although the IPL playoffs will now take place after this date, the board has managed to get their players released earlier.
South Africa’s team will play a practice match against Zimbabwe starting June 3, as they prepare for the WTC Final.