As the 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) returns after an unprecedented mid-season break, teams have begun regrouping, adjusting their line-ups, and making last-minute additions to ensure readiness for the final stretch. With national duties and fitness concerns affecting player availability, franchises have been allowed to make temporary replacements under exceptional circumstances. Here’s a comprehensive update on where each team stands:
Royal Challengers Bengaluru
RCB fans received a boost as the franchise confirmed the arrival of their English trio – Phil Salt, Liam Livingstone, and Jacob Bethell – ahead of their clash against KKR on May 17. West Indies all-rounder Romario Shepherd, who played a decisive role in RCB’s win over CSK before the break, is also back in the squad. Adding further depth, Australian all-rounder Tim David has rejoined the team and is expected to slot into the middle order.
Gujarat Titans
The Titans have been bolstered by the return of Jos Buttler and Kagiso Rabada, both key overseas players. However, their participation in the playoffs remains uncertain, as England and South Africa have upcoming international commitments. The franchise is awaiting official confirmation from the respective boards.
Kolkata Knight Riders
KKR confirmed that their squad has arrived in Bengaluru ahead of their fixture against RCB, with two notable exceptions – Rovman Powell and Moeen Ali. Powell is undergoing a medical procedure, while Moeen and his family are recovering from a viral infection. Both players will miss the immediate set of matches.
Delhi Capitals
DC have roped in Mustafizur Rahman as a replacement for the injured Jake Fraser-McGurk. However, the Bangladeshi pacer is yet to arrive in India as he awaits a No Objection Certificate from the Bangladesh Cricket Board. Mustafizur is currently in the UAE representing Bangladesh in a T20I series.
Rajasthan Royals
The Royals will be without speedster Jofra Archer for their last two matches, with the England pacer opting not to rejoin the squad. The team is yet to announce any replacement.
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
LSG have moved quickly to fill the void left by Indian pacer Mayank Yadav, who has been ruled out of the tournament due to a back injury. The franchise has signed William O’Rourke, the promising New Zealand fast bowler, for INR 3 crore as a replacement. O’Rourke’s inclusion is seen as a strategic move to bolster the pace attack as LSG eyes a playoff spot.
Chennai Super Kings
Already out of playoff contention, CSK will not be seeing the return of Sam Curran and Jamie Overton, both of whom have national commitments. The franchise has decided against naming temporary replacements for the remaining two games of their campaign.
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
SRH will see the return of two key Australians — Travis Head and Pat Cummins — who are expected to fly directly to Lucknow ahead of their match against LSG on May 19. Their arrival is expected to give a major boost to both SRH’s top order and bowling unit as the team pushes for a strong finish to the league stage.
Punjab Kings (PBKS)
Punjab Kings have made a significant mid-season signing, bringing in New Zealand pacer Kyle Jamieson for INR 2 crore. He replaces fellow Kiwi Lockie Ferguson, who has been ruled out of the rest of the tournament due to a hamstring injury suffered during PBKS’s game against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
There is some uncertainty surrounding the availability of Australian stars Marcus Stoinis, Aaron Hardie, and Josh Inglis. The trio has yet to confirm their participation for the remainder of the season. However, team insiders believe they may return following PBKS’s opening match after the restart, scheduled for May 18 in Jaipur. In the meantime, Mitch Owen and Xavier Bartlett have already joined the squad, adding depth to the team coached by Australian legend Ricky Ponting.
With the league stage entering its decisive phase, player availability could play a crucial role in shaping the playoff picture. Fans can expect more announcements as teams finalize their rosters in this unpredictable and evolving IPL 2025 season.
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