Most Overseas Players to Return for IPL 2025 Restart from May 17: Aussies Still in Doubt

The excitement of IPL 2025 is coming back as the tournament is all set to resume on Saturday, May 17, after a short break due to India-Pakistan border tensions. While many foreign players are returning to India, some Australians and English players are still uncertain. Let’s understand everything in simple Indian English and human-style tone.

Most Overseas Stars Set to Return

Many international players are making their way back to India for the second leg of IPL 2025. Big names like Pat Cummins and Travis Head have already confirmed their return, even though their team Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) is already out of the playoff race. They will play SRH’s remaining two matches before heading back.

Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Titans & KKR at Full Strength

Franchises like Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Titans, and Kolkata Knight Riders are looking strong as most of their foreign players are returning. MI has already started training at Wankhede Stadium. Rohit Sharma was joined by overseas teammates like Mitchell Santner, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, and Bevon Jacobs. Others, like Will Jacks and Ryan Rickelton, will join by May 16.

Gujarat Titans are also expecting a full house. Rashid Khan, Kagiso Rabada, and Sherfane Rutherford never left India. Jos Buttler and Gerald Coetzee will return by Wednesday, keeping GT in strong contention for playoffs.

Rajasthan Royals, RCB & PBKS Face Uncertainty

Rajasthan Royals may struggle as their bowling coach Shane Bond is unlikely to return. The team is also unsure about Jofra Archer and Shimron Hetmyer. Similarly, RCB will miss Josh Hazlewood due to injury. While Liam Livingstone, Lungi Ngidi, and Nuwan Thushara are expected to return, Mitchell Starc’s situation is unclear. Sources say the long travel from Dharamsala to Delhi disturbed him, making him unsure about rejoining.

Delhi Capitals lost Jake Fraser-McGurk, who won’t return either, but Faf du Plessis and Tristan Stubbs are expected to be available. DC still has hopes for the playoffs, so their overseas squad will be crucial.

Punjab Kings are still waiting for clarity on Josh Inglis and Marcus Stoinis. Inglis is part of Australia’s WTC final squad, which could affect his return. PBKS hopes other foreign players will stay for the remaining matches.

Chennai Super Kings & SRH Out of Playoff Race

CSK, like SRH, are already out of the playoff contention. Most of their overseas stars like Devon Conway have agreed to return, but Rachin Ravindra’s comeback is still not confirmed. Since they’re not in the race, CSK has given players freedom to decide.

What About the Aussies?

There are 16 Australian players in the IPL this year. However, due to upcoming international duties and some personal discomfort after recent travel, not all are expected back. Players like Glenn Maxwell and Josh Hazlewood are already ruled out. CA (Cricket Australia) is allowing players to decide on their own whether to stay or return to prepare for the WTC Final starting June 11 at Lord’s.

Where Will the Playoffs Happen?

The BCCI is planning to host the playoff matches possibly in Delhi, Mumbai, or Ahmedabad. Kolkata was dropped as the final venue due to heavy rain forecasts around June 3. The weather in Mumbai, Delhi, and Ahmedabad is clear, making them top choices.

IPL 2025 is back with all the buzz, and most overseas stars are rejoining their teams. However, a few Australians and English players are still undecided. As the league enters its final stage, fans can expect thrilling matches and full-strength squads from top teams. Whether your team is chasing playoffs or playing for pride, the second phase of IPL 2025 promises high-voltage cricket action.

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