Mumbai: The Indian Premier League was gearing up to restart on May 16th after suspending the 2025 season due to rising political tensions between India and Pakistan However, there is widespread speculation about whether star Australian players will participate due to potential conflicts with the upcoming ICC World Test Championship final in June. When overseas players departed India early, the Board of Control for Cricket in India introduced new stringent rules – including potential two-year bans – aimed at ensuring commitments are upheld.
Now, as the BCCI awaits government approval to complete the tournament’s remaining matches by May 30th in a condensed schedule, uncertainty looms over whether fast bowler Mitchell Starc and others will risk penalties by prioritising the WTC over the lucrative IPL.
Starc’s manager hinted at reluctance to rejoin, citing personal and professional reasons. Josh Hazlewood and teammates Pat Cummins and Travis Head are also unlikely due to injuries and scheduling clashes. With the Australian team scheduled to arrive in England on June 6th for the WTC, Cricket Australia is reported to be wary of endangering player fitness or form. This is so close to a major final.
However, the BCCI remains focused on finalising logistics and securing clearance in hopes of restarting the IPL on time. This is despite the very real possibility of missing marquee Australian names like Starc and Cummins, which could hurt the tournament’s global appeal. The coming days may show if diplomacy or strict regulations enforcement takes precedence as the high-stakes cricketing drama unfolds.