As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 prepares to resume on May 17 after a week-long suspension prompted by border tensions, Cricket Australia (CA) has publicly stated its support for Australian players to make individual decisions regarding their return for the remainder of the season. The announcement addresses growing uncertainty among players regarding safety, scheduling conflicts, and potential repercussions for future IPL participation.

Cricket Australia issues statement on Aussie players’ availability for the remaining IPL 2025

In a statement released on Tuesday morning, CA confirmed it would “support players in their individual decisions whether to return to India or not.” The board highlighted the importance of preparation for the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa at Lord’s, scheduled to begin on June 11, for selected players. Arrangements will be made to accommodate those who opt to play in the IPL’s concluding stages.

“Team management will work through the preparation implications for the World Test Championship final for those players who choose to play in the remaining IPL matches,” CA stated. “We are maintaining communication with the Australian Government and BCCI around security arrangements and safety.”

Return of some star Aussie players seems doubtful

The revised IPL schedule, with the final now slated for June 3, just a week before the WTC final, presents a significant dilemma for both Australian and South African players. Key Australian figures like Pat Cummins, Travis Head, Josh Inglis and Mitchell Starc are considered crucial to Australia’s WTC aspirations. While some players, such as Josh Hazlewood, are currently dealing with injuries, others have not yet publicly declared their intentions. Reports suggest Hazlewood and Starc are unlikely to rejoin their IPL franchiseswhile players like Mitch Marsh are reportedly still weighing their options as their teams push for playoff berths.

The majority of Australia’s IPL contingent, including players and coaching staff, returned home after the tournament was suspended on May 9. Notable exceptions include former players and current coaches Ricky Ponting and Brad Haddin, who are among the few Australians who remained in India, while others like Justin Langer and Mike Hussey have already departed.

CA’s position aims to alleviate concerns among players regarding safety and potential pressure to return, or fear of negatively impacting future IPL opportunities if they choose not to. The board has provided assurance that players’ decisions regarding their participation will not affect their future selection for the IPL or their relationship with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

With at least 12 league matches and four playoffs fixtures remaining, the BCCI has requested franchises to facilitate the return of all overseas players. However, CA’s clear backing of its players’ autonomy signals a player-centric approach as the IPL 2025 season heads into its critical final phase.

Also Check: IPL 2025 – Stats