Big U-Turn! South Africa Allows Players to Participate in Remaining IPL 2025 After BCCI Pressure
Cricket South Africa allows its WTC-bound players to stay back for IPL 2025 after BCCI's strong stance
The return of IPL 2025 has created a new problem for South Africa. Cricket South Africa (CSA) wants its players back by May 26 for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against Australia, which starts on June 11 at Lord’s. But many of these players are still playing in IPL, and the revised schedule has created a clash.
South Africa In Talks With BCCI
According to a report by Cricbuzz, CSA is now in discussions with the BCCI to find a solution. Enoch Nkwe, Director of Cricket South Africa, confirmed that talks are ongoing. He said, “Yes, we want the Test players back on 26th, but the final decision will be made by top officials from both boards.”
The IPL 2025 was suspended for a week due to rising tensions between India and Pakistan. The tournament will now resume on May 17 and end on June 3. This change has affected CSA’s original plan for WTC preparations.
Eight South African Players In WTC Squad
South Africa has named eight IPL players in their WTC squad:
- Corbin Bosch (Mumbai Indians)
- Wiaan Mulder (Sunrisers Hyderabad)
- Marco Jansen (Punjab Kings)
- Aiden Markram (Lucknow Super Giants)
- Lungi Ngidi (Royal Challengers Bengaluru)
- Kagiso Rabada (Gujarat Titans)
- Ryan Rickelton (Mumbai Indians)
- Tristan Stubbs (Delhi Capitals)
Originally, the team was going to start practice on May 31 and play a warm-up game on June 3. But CSA has now said that training will begin on June 3 instead. Nkwe added, “The matter is being handled at the top level. For now, we are focused on preparing for the WTC Final.”
The revised IPL 2025 schedule includes 17 matches and will be held at six venues, ending with the final on June 3.
