Du Plessis back in DC mix, Starc opts out of IPL; Stoinis-Inglis set to return

In a significant boost for Delhi Capitals, vice-captain Faf du Plessis has confirmed his return for the remainder of the IPL 2025 season. However, the franchise will be without two key overseas players, Australian pacer Mitchell Starc and South African batter Donovan Ferreira, both of whom have opted out of the tournament’s resumption.

Starc, who has spearheaded DC’s bowling attack this season, informed the management of his decision not to return. The left-arm quick has been instrumental for Delhi, topping their wicket charts with 14 scalps in 11 matches at an average of 26.14. His absence leaves a massive void in an already struggling campaign, with DC’s playoff hopes hanging by a thread.

Ferreira, who has featured in just one match this season, also communicated his unavailability for the remaining fixtures.

Meanwhile, Punjab Kings have received a mixed update on their overseas contingent. Australian duo Marcus Stoinis and Josh Inglis are set to rejoin the squad but will miss the team`s first match after the restart on May 18. Punjab, currently third on the points table, need at least two wins in their final three games to guarantee a playoff berth, although one win could suffice depending on net run rate and other results.

Capitals have welcomed back another South African, Tristan Stubbs, who will be available for the final three league matches. However, Stubbs is part of South Africa’s World Test Championship Final squad and will not be available for the IPL playoffs should DC advance.

Mumbai Indians, meanwhile, are set to regain the services of England all-rounder Will Jacks for their last two league matches. Jacks confirmed his return via Instagram, posting an image of his flight ticket to Mumbai. Like fellow Englishman Jos Buttler, Jacks will depart for national duty after MI’s league fixtures, as the IPL playoffs coincide with England’s white-ball series against West Indies, beginning May 29.

Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman, who was signed as a temporary replacement for Jake Fraser-McGurk, has secured a No Objection Certificate from the Bangladesh Cricket Board. He will be available for selection from May 18 to May 24.

The IPL 2025 was temporarily suspended on May 9 due to escalating border tensions between India and Pakistan. The league resumes on May 17, with the final now rescheduled for June 3, a shift that has caused overlaps with several international series involving players from South Africa, England, Australia, and the West Indies.

This article first appeared on Mid Day