These stars will be deprived of IPL playoffs due to West Indies ODI series, RCB-GT-MI suffer huge losses.
The news of Buttler, Bethell, Jacks set to miss IPL playoffs has created a stir in the IPL 2025 playoff race. The England Cricket Board (ECB) has included these three players in the team for the ODI series against the West Indies starting on May 29, due to which these stars are caught in a clash with the new schedule of IPL. The suspension of IPL and new dates after the India-Pakistan tension has increased the difficulties of the franchise teams.
IPL vs England Duty: Why will the playoffs be missed?
The IPL 2025 group stage will now run till May 27, while the playoffs will start from May 29 and continue till the final on June 3. On the other hand, England’s ODI series starts on May 29 at Edgbaston. Due to this clash:
- Jacob Bethell (RCB): He will return to the IPL from May 16-17 but will leave for England before RCB’s last group match (May 27) in Lucknow.
- Jos Buttler (GT) and Will Jacks (MI): Their travel plans are not yet confirmed but it is believed that they will go back for the ODI series after playing a few matches.
The ECB had given NOCs (No Objection Certificates) based on the original schedule of IPL 2025 (till June 3) but refused to give clarity on the new dates. An ECB spokesperson said, “We want to support the IPL and BCCI, but will have to review the clash with the white-ball squad.”
How much loss to RCB, GT, MI?
- RCB: Bethell’s departure will be a blow to the middle order, but the presence of Liam Livingstone and Phil Salt (who were dropped from the ODI squad) will provide relief.
- GT: Without Buttler, the responsibility of the top order will be on Shubman Gill and Sai Sudarshan.
- MI: Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya will have to bear extra pressure in the absence of Will Jacks.
Other important updates: Archer-Overton also out
- Jofra Archer (RR) and Jamie Overton (CSK) have also been included in England’s ODI squad but their teams have been eliminated from the playoffs. Overton is unlikely to return to IPL.
- West Indies Shepherd (RCB) and Rutherford (GT): They may be allowed to miss the ODI against Ireland so that they can remain in the IPL. A statement from CWI is expected soon.
Importance of ODI series: Race for 2027 World Cup
Both England and West Indies teams are struggling to qualify for the 2027 World Cup. Apart from co-hosts South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe, the top-8 ranked teams will qualify. This series has become a ‘do or die’ between England (8th) and West Indies (9th).
Harry Brook’s new challenge
This series is also important for Harry Brook, who has taken over the captaincy in place of Buttler. England recently performed badly in India and Champions Trophy by losing 10 out of 11 matches. Brook will have to work under pressure as soon as he takes charge of the team.
Fan’s reaction: Anger and disappointment
On social media, fans have expressed their displeasure with ECB and BCCI. One user wrote, “IPL playoffs will seem incomplete without Butler-Jacks.” At the same time, some said, “It is right to give priority to international cricket.”
Conclusion:
The decision of Buttler, Bethell, Jacks set to miss IPL playoffs can spoil the fun of IPL 2025. Franchise teams will now have to change their strategy while the question of country versus league has again emerged for the players. This conflict has again highlighted the conflict between cricket’s commercial and national priorities. Now it remains to be seen how much the magic of IPL can woo the fans!
Also Read : Rajat Patidar Ruled Out of IPL 2025, RCB captaincy to Jitesh Sharma