The 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025), which was paused for a week due to heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, is set to resume from May 17 following a ceasefire.
However, Delhi Capitals are facing fresh setbacks just ahead of the league's restart, with multiple key overseas players opting out of the remainder of the tournament.
Starc, Faf, and Ferreira out - Delhi in trouble
Delhi, who began IPL 2025 with impressive performances, have faltered in recent matches. Still in contention for the playoffs, their path has become more difficult.
After Mitchell Starc opted out, South African cricketers Faf du Plessis and Donovan Ferreira have reportedly decided not to return to India. This triple blow has left Delhi Capitals scrambling for solutions as they prepare for their final and must-win matches.
Three matches left, no margin for error
With only three league games remaining, Delhi Capitals (DC) must win all to stay alive in the playoff race. A single loss could knock them out of contention. The absence of three key players adds more pressure on the team management to quickly find replacements.
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Stubbs returns, other reinforcements await
In some relief, South African batter Tristan Stubbs is set to return to the Delhi Capitals squad. Players like Sadiqullah Atal and Dushmantha Chameera are already available. Meanwhile, left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman, who was bought in as Mac Frazer's replacement, is awaiting a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Bangladesh Cricket Board to rejoin the team.
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Delhi Capitals will face Gujarat Titans (GT) in their next match at home on Sunday, May 18. After facing GT, their last two league stage games are against Mumbai Indians (MI) and Punjab Kings (PBKS).