Mitchell Starc May Miss IPL 2025 Due to National Commitments
As the cricket world waits for the situation to unfold, the safety and well-being of the players remain the top priority. The PCB's efforts to ensure the safe evacuation of the overseas players are commendable, and the cricket community hopes for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. With the IPL's potential resumption, fans are eager to see their favorite teams and players back in action.
Delhi Capitals' star left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc is unlikely to return for the remainder of the IPL 2025 due to his national commitments, specifically the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 final against South Africa, while other overseas players are relieved to have escaped the tense situation in Pakistan.
The escalating border tensions between India and Pakistan had a significant impact on the cricket world, with several overseas players participating in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) facing a frightening ordeal. Bangladesh legspinner Rishad Hossain, who was among the players, recounted his experience, saying he and others were initially flown out to the UAE before connecting flights to their final destinations. The players, including Sam Billings, Daryl Mitchell, Kushal Perera, David Wiese, and Tom Curran, were shaken by the crisis, with Tom Curran reportedly crying like a child when he heard the airport was closed.
The PCB chairman initially wanted to hold the remaining PSL matches in Karachi, but the players raised safety concerns, and the decision was changed to hold the matches in Dubai. The PCB helped the players reach Dubai safely, and Rishad thanked them for their assistance. Meanwhile, Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood was unwittingly dragged into a bitter war of words on social media after a fake account was set up in his name, posting a message praising the Indian Armed Forces.
The Indian Premier League (IPL) was suspended due to the conflict, but a ceasefire agreement may allow the tournament to resume as early as Thursday. The fate of the remaining Australians in the IPL remains uncertain, with some players facing potential contract implications if they do not complete the tournament. Many Australian players, including Hazlewood, have returned home, while others, such as Ricky Ponting and Brad Haddin, have opted to stay in India to continue their coaching commitments.