IPL 2025 Playoffs Create Availability Issues for England Players

England Players Face Tough Choices Amid IPL Rescheduling

The recent changes to the IPL 2025 playoff schedule have raised concerns for England cricketers Jos Buttler, Jacob Bethell, and Will Jacks. Their participation in the IPL is now uncertain as they have been selected for England's ODI squad for the upcoming series against the West Indies, starting on May 29.

Following the suspension of the IPL due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, England players departed from the tournament. With the IPL set to resume on May 17, Buttler, Bethell, and Jacks must now decide whether to fulfill their IPL commitments or prioritize their national responsibilities. Buttler represents the Gujarat Titans, Bethell plays for Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Jacks is with the Mumbai Indians—all teams vying for a spot in the finals. The group stage matches are scheduled to continue until May 27, with playoffs extending until June 3.

Prior to the auction, England had assured their full support for the IPL, committing to be available for the tournament's initial schedule. However, the revised timeline now conflicts with a significant ODI series for England. A spokesperson from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed that while there were no objections to the original dates, the new schedule would require further evaluation, especially for players engaged in both the IPL and the ODI squad. The ECB spokesperson stated on Tuesday,

"We are eager to support the IPL and the BCCI in facilitating the schedule and assisting players who wish to return. No Objection Certificates were issued based on the initial IPL dates, so we will need to assess any potential extensions, particularly concerning conflicts with the final ODI squad. We will maintain close collaboration with the BCCI and the IPL as the situation evolves."

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A Dilemma for Both Sides

The situation is further complicated by the selection of Jofra Archer and Jamie Overton for the ODI squad. Their IPL teams, Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings, have already been eliminated from playoff contention, making it unlikely for their participation in both events to conflict. Meanwhile, other English players such as Liam Livingstone and Phil Salt will not be part of the ODI series, with Salt being included in the T20 squad instead.

The West Indies team is facing similar challenges with Romario Shepherd and , both of whom are part of IPL franchises. Shepherd and Rutherford, who were expected to miss their previous series, now find themselves torn between the West Indies' World Cup qualifying efforts and the high stakes of the IPL. The forthcoming ODI series could ultimately determine their availability for both events, as Cricket West Indies seeks a resolution.