IPL 2025: Teams Allowed to Pick Temporary Replacements for Remaining Matches, But with a Catch

IPL 2025 Temporary Replacement: The IPL 2025 is back on track after a short pause, but some big players are not returning. To handle this sudden situation, the BCCI has made a new rule for the teams. Now, franchises can bring in temporary replacement players for the rest of the season. However, there’s a twist – these new players will not be allowed to stay with the teams next year. This rule is only for this season and will not carry forward to IPL 2026.

IPL 2025: What’s the New Rule All About?

Because of injuries, personal reasons, and national duties, a few players like Jake Fraser-McGurk and Jamie Overton have pulled out of IPL 2025. To deal with this, BCCI has allowed franchises to take temporary replacement players until the end of this season.

The IPL COO Hemang Amin, in an email to the teams, said that this move is only for the ongoing season due to the unexpected break and scheduling changes. He explained that the temporary replacement rule has been updated to help teams cope with the loss of players.

Here’s the Catch

There is one big condition: any temporary replacement picked after the league’s suspension (due to India-Pakistan tensions) cannot be retained for the next season. If a team wants to keep that player in 2026, the player must go through the IPL Auction again. So, it’s more of a short-term fix than a long-term signing.

On the other hand, those replacements who were approved before the league was paused (like Mayank Agarwal, Sediqullah Atal, and Nandre Burger) are eligible to be retained for the next season.

Why this Decision was Taken

This step was necessary because the IPL had to reschedule matches, which created clashes with international cricket calendars. Many overseas players now have to choose between IPL and national duties. BCCI wants teams to manage these sudden player exits in a fair way.

Also, this rule stops teams from using this chance to unfairly secure top talent outside of the auction system. So, the rule ensures replacements are made only when necessary.

Examples of Temporary Replacements

One such change has already happened. Delhi Capitals brought in Mustafizur Rahman after Jake Fraser-McGurk left due to personal reasons. There may be many more such replacements in the coming days as more players confirm their unavailability.

Why It Matters for Teams

This is a crucial rule because the tournament is in its final leg and playoff race is heating up. Teams like Delhi Capitals, RCB, and Rajasthan Royals are still in the hunt for playoffs, and losing key players can hurt their chances. With this new rule, they can bring in fresh players and try to keep their momentum alive.

What Happens Next

As the IPL resumes on May 17, all eyes will be on how teams manage their squads. While most overseas players are returning, some like Starc, Hazlewood, and Fraser-McGurk won’t be back. Now, teams have a short window to fix their squads with temporary players and push for playoff spots.

This move by the IPL is timely and shows flexibility in managing real-time challenges. It helps teams stay balanced and ensures fans get to enjoy competitive cricket in the final stages. While the replacements are temporary, they could still play a key role in turning a team’s fate this season.

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

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