As the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) deliberates on the resumption of IPL 2025 following its suspension on 9th May due to increasing tensions between India and Pakistan, the focus has shifted to player availability, particularly for Australians and South Africans. The World Test Championship (WTC) final, set for 11th June at Lord’s, adds another layer of complexity.
The BCCI is keenly watching the situation, as confirmed by secretary Devajit Saikia: “The BCCI is closely monitoring the evolving situation and developments, and will take a call on IPL resumption after consulting all stakeholders and the concerned government authorities.” The decision, he added, will involve consultations with franchises and other stakeholders, alongside government approval.
Currently, thirteen league matches and four play-off fixtures remain, with the final initially slated for 25th May in Kolkata. The suspension led many international players and staff to leave India promptly, posing a challenge of reassembling teams if the league resumes.
Questions linger about Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s key bowler Josh Hazlewood’s return. His participation was already in doubt due to a shoulder issue, which had sidelined him against Chennai Super Kings on 3rd May, and again for the match against Lucknow Super Giants on 9th May, prior to the suspension.
Hazlewood had been nursing prior injuries—a calf strain and a side strain limiting his participation in major tournaments—and had only just returned to fitness during IPL 2025. According to ESPNcricinfo, Cricket Australia isn’t overly concerned about his current niggle, and he’s likely to be named in the Test squad for the UK conditioning camp preceding the WTC final.
Other Australian players like Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Travis Head face decisions regarding a return to IPL, balancing commitments with the impending WTC final. With Cummins and Head’s Sunrisers Hyderabad already out of the playoff race, their league participation is less pressing. However, Mitchell Starc’s Delhi Capitals, still contenders sitting fifth, adds a potential dilemma.
Collectively, teams face logistical challenges, evidenced by Starc’s travel by road and train amidst the suspension. As with the New Zealand contingent and others, the decision to return hinges on the unfolding IPL schedule and individual circumstances, leaving fans and franchises in anticipation.
