The World Test Championship (WTC) final between Australia and South Africa is scheduled to be played at Lord’s from June 11. Due to this, there is uncertainty over the availability of players from both nations for the remaining matches of IPL 2025. South Africa’s head coach Shukri Conrad has commented on the matter, stating that the national players participating in the IPL are expected to return home by May 26.
Delay in Tournament Causes Issues
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) postponed IPL 2025 by a week due to ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan. The revised schedule released by BCCI shows that the tournament will now begin on May 17, with the final set for June 3. However, this delay has created difficulties for several teams in fulfilling their international commitments. The biggest concern lies with the Australian and South African players.
Coach Clarifies South Africa’s Stand
Commenting on the extension of the IPL season, Conrad said, “The initial agreement with the IPL and BCCI was that the players would return after the final on May 25 and be back home by May 26. From our perspective, nothing has changed. That is still the discussion. As it stands, we want our players to return by the 26th.” Cricket South Africa has already announced its squad for the WTC final, and it is expected that all selected players will arrive in England by May 31. Players not participating in the IPL will reach by May 30, while those playing in the IPL will have to leave before the playoffs.
Key Players in IPL and WTC Final Squad
Several South African players selected for the WTC final are currently active in the IPL. Among them are Corbin Bosch and Ryan Rickelton (Mumbai Indians), Kagiso Rabada (Gujarat Titans), Tristan Stubbs (Delhi Capitals), Aiden Markram (Lucknow Super Giants), Marco Jansen (Punjab Kings), Lungi Ngidi (RCB), and Wiaan Mulder (Sunrisers Hyderabad). Most of their teams are still in the playoff race.
Also Read- IPL 2025 Schedule- BCCI Announces Remaining Schedule; First Match on 17 May
New NOC Will Be Required
These players were initially given No Objection Certificates (NOC) to participate in the IPL until May 25. However, with the tournament now extended, they will need fresh approvals to stay beyond that date. Considering the importance of the WTC final, Cricket South Africa is unlikely to extend the NOCs. With only eight days between the IPL final and the WTC final, the South African management is prioritizing player rest and adequate preparation time for the crucial clash against Australia.