IPL 2025 restart update: Who’s back? Who’s replaced?

The IPL 2025 is back after a brief break, and teams are quickly recalibrating their squads to adapt to availability and fitness updates. Temporary replacements have been permitted due to the exceptional mid-season restart. Here’s a quick rundown of team-wise updates:
Gujarat Titans
- Back: Jos Buttler and Kagiso Rabada have rejoined the squad.
- Status: Their playoff availability remains uncertain due to upcoming England and South Africa international fixtures.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
- Back: English trio Phil Salt, Liam Livingstone, and Jacob Bethell have landed in Bengaluru.
- Boost: Romario Shepherd returns and is expected to feature again after his standout performance against CSK.
Delhi Capitals (DC)
- Replaced: Mustafizur Rahman has been signed as a temporary replacement for Jake Fraser-McGurk.
- Update: Mustafizur is currently with the Bangladesh national team in the UAE and awaits a No Objection Certificate from the BCB.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
- Unavailable: Rovman Powell (undergoing a medical procedure) and Moeen Ali (viral infection) will miss the restart.
- Update: Rest of the squad and support staff have reached Bengaluru ahead of their May 17 match vs RCB.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
- Unavailable: England duo Sam Curran and Jamie Overton won’t return.
- Decision: With CSK out of the playoff race, management has decided not to seek replacements.
Rajasthan Royals (RR)
- Unavailable: Jofra Archer will not return for the final two games of the season.
Conclusion:
The IPL 2025 restart has brought with it both returns and setbacks. Teams are adapting rapidly to changing rosters, and the next few matches could hinge heavily on the impact of these returning and replacement players. Stay tuned for more updates as the race to the playoffs heats up!