South Africa Cricket Board Reverses Decision, Allows 8 Players to Continue in IPL 2025

Amid the tense India-Pakistan situation that led to a one-week suspension of IPL 2025 on May 9, many foreign players had already returned to their home countries. With the IPL resuming from May 17, foreign players are now making their way back to India. However, Cricket South Africa (CSA) initially ordered eight of its players to leave India mid-season to prepare for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final by May 26.

U-Turn After Talks with BCCI

After discussions with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), CSA has reversed its decision. The new plan allows the South African players to stay in the IPL till at least June 2, enabling them to participate in the playoffs. The WTC Final preparations will now begin from June 3 instead of the earlier date.

Statement from CSA

Enoch Nkwe, CSA Director, stated:

"We are making improvements. The team will resume training for the game on June 3. This matter is being discussed above me. At the ground level, we are focusing on preparations for the WTC final."

IPL Schedule and Player Availability

• League Stage End: May 27
• Playoffs: May 28 to June 1
• Final Match: June 3

This adjustment means South African players selected for the WTC Final can play for their IPL franchises through the league stage and playoffs.

The 8 South African Players Concerned Player IPL Team

Corbin Bosch	Mumbai Indians
Wiaan Mulder	Sunrisers Hyderabad
Marco Jansen	Punjab Kings
Aiden Markram	Lucknow Super Giants
Lungi Ngidi	Royal Challengers Bangalore
Kagiso Rabada	Gujarat Titans
Ryan Rickelton	Mumbai Indians
Tristan Stubbs	Delhi Capitals

 

• Wiaan Mulder’s team (SRH) is already out of playoffs, so he can return earlier if needed.

Summary

The BCCI’s negotiations have allowed South African players crucial IPL game time before shifting focus to the WTC Final. This decision benefits both IPL teams and South Africa’s national side by balancing player availability and preparation time.