IPL 2025: Mitchell Starc opts out to focus on WTC Final, Faf du Plessis to miss as well

The Australian left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc has decided not to return to India for the final leg of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. The bowler, who has been a key performer for the Delhi Capitals (DC) this season has informed the franchise that he would not be available for the remaining fixtures of the tournament.

The veteran has been selected for Australia's squad for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against South Africa which is scheduled to begin on June 11. Despite the IPL 2025 final being set for June 3, he has opted out early to focus on preparations and his fitness for the Test clash.

Starc has been in prime form this season - he is DC's highest wicket-taker so far with 14 wickets in 11 matches at an average of 26.14. His absence will be a big blow to DC as they aim for a spot in the playoffs.

Additionally, South Africa batter Faf du Plessis is also going to miss the remainder of the tournament. He started the season for the team before missing a few games due to an unspecified injury. With Jake Fraser-McGurk having opted out, DC will now have to figure out the opening partner for Abhishek Porel. Meanwhile, Tristan Stubbs has confirmed his participation for the rest of the league phase but will leave for the WTC Final.

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DC has signed Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman as a replacement for Jake Fraser-McGurk, who will not return for the remainder of the tournament. However, there is uncertainty regarding the left-arm pacer’s participation, as the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has not yet issued a No-Objection Certificate (NOC). The bowler is currently in Sharjah for the two-match T20I series against the UAE.

As for other Australians, the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), who have been eliminated from the tournament, will have the services of Pat Cummins and Travis Head for their remaining league matches, which will end on May 25. This means they will have ample time to prepare for the WTC Final.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are awaiting a fitness update on Josh Hazlewood, who is looking after a niggle in the shoulder. Meanwhile, Josh Inglis is yet to confirm his return to the Punjab Kings (PBKS). Mitchell Marsh is set to rejoin the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) ahead of the final stages of the IPL.