Kusal Mendis opts out of PSL to replace Jos Buttler for IPL 2025 playoffs

Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batter Kusal Mendis is set to join the Gujarat Titans as a replacement for England`s Jos Buttler for the upcoming IPL 2025 playoffs, beginning on May 29.

Gujarat will next face the Delhi Capitals on May 18 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.

Buttler will miss the IPL 2025 playoffs after being named in England’s ODI squad for the home series against West Indies, which commences on the same day as the IPL’s knockout stages. As per ESPNcricinfo, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) had granted no-objection certificates (NOCs) to all English players involved in the IPL only until May 25, the original date set for the tournament final.

Mendis` Instagram story

Mendis, who has not previously featured in the IPL, was recently active in the Pakistan Super League 2025 with the Quetta Gladiators. Playing as their primary wicketkeeper-batter, Mendis last turned out for the franchise on May 7. However, he has since opted out of returning to Pakistan for the remainder of the PSL due to concerns around personal safety and has now committed to participating in the IPL instead.

Gujarat Titans already have two other wicketkeeping options in their ranks, Anuj Rawat and Kumar Kushagra, but Mendis brings with him strong current form and international experience. During the ongoing PSL season, he accumulated 143 runs in five matches for the Gladiators, scoring at a strike rate of 168.

Internationally, Mendis has been a consistent presence in Sri Lanka’s T20 setup. He has featured in 78 T20 Internationals, amassing 1,920 runs at an average of 25.60 and a strike rate of 131.68. His T20I career includes 15 half-centuries, making him a valuable addition to Gujarat’s playoff campaign.

Buttler, who has been instrumental for GT this season, leaves a significant void. The England star has scored 500 runs across 11 innings in IPL 2025, maintaining an impressive average of 71.43 and a blazing strike rate of 163.93. His contributions have played a crucial role in propelling the Titans to the top of the points table. They currently lead the standings with eight wins and three losses from 11 matches.

(With ANI inputs)

This article first appeared on Mid Day