IPL Introduces New Rule to Curb Overseas Player Withdrawals
The Indian Premier League (IPL) governing council has implemented a regulation change, targeting the issue of high-profile overseas players withdrawing after being selected in the auction. Starting from the 2025 edition, any player who registers for the auction but withdraws later will face a two-year suspension. This move aims to prevent last-minute withdrawals and ensure teams have stable and committed squads.
Players Who Left Big Contracts Behind
Several foreign players, despite being picked for significant sums in previous IPL auctions, have chosen to withdraw due to various personal and professional reasons. Here is a look at some key overseas players who opted out after their selection.
Ben Stokes: Injuries and National Duty
Ben Stokes, acquired by Chennai Super Kings for a massive Rs 16.25 crore in 2023, played only two matches before a knee injury cut his season short. Prioritizing his national commitments and managing his fitness, Stokes withdrew from IPL the following season, disappointing fans and CSK supporters.
Jason Roy: Repeated Withdrawals
England opener Jason Roy has withdrawn twice after being auctioned. In 2022, he was signed by Gujarat Titans for Rs 2 crore but opted out citing personal reasons. In 2024, he was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders for Rs 2.8 crore, only to pull out once again before the tournament’s start.
Jonny Bairstow: Covid Protocol Challenges
Jonny Bairstow’s participation in IPL 2021 ended prematurely as he decided against joining Sunrisers Hyderabad in the UAE for the tournament’s second phase. With quarantine protocols and national series commitments, Bairstow chose to remain with the England team rather than rejoin the IPL season.
Dawid Malan: Limited Appearances
In IPL 2021, Dawid Malan, ranked as the world’s No. 1 T20I batter at the time, was signed by Punjab Kings but played only one match in the season’s first phase. He opted out of the tournament’s second leg, citing similar concerns over Covid-19 protocols.
Alex Hales: Bubble Fatigue
Signed by Kolkata Knight Riders for Rs 1.5 crore in 2022, Alex Hales withdrew due to ‘bubble fatigue,’ as extensive quarantine requirements affected his ability to participate. The withdrawal left KKR searching for a last-minute replacement and highlighted the challenges faced by players during the pandemic.
Shakib Al Hasan: International Duties Over IPL
Shakib Al Hasan also missed the 2023 IPL season with KKR due to international commitments. Initially, he was set to miss only the first week, but after Bangladesh’s continued schedule against Ireland, he ultimately opted out of the tournament, prioritizing his national team’s needs.
The New Rule’s Potential Impact
The new two-year suspension rule introduced for IPL 2025 aims to encourage more reliable commitments from overseas players. This decision is expected to stabilize team rosters and minimize disruptions caused by last-minute dropouts. By deterring withdrawals, the IPL seeks to create a fairer and more competitive environment for franchises and fans alike.(cricket betting app)