IPL Drama Unfolds! Starc and Ferreira Pull Out, Will Jacks Joins MI

May 16, 2025: The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 continues to grapple with player availability issues as it resumes following a week-long pause due to India-Pakistan border tensions. In a fresh blow to the Delhi Capitals (DC), Australian pace spearhead Mitchell Starc and South African batter Donovan Ferreira have chosen not to return for the remainder of the season. Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians (MI) have been boosted by the return of England all-rounder Will Jacks for their final two league games.

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Starc, Delhi’s leading wicket-taker with 14 dismissals in 11 matches at an average of 26.14, informed the franchise management of his decision to stay out for the rest of the tournament. His absence significantly dents DC’s playoff hopes, which already hang by a thread. Ferreira, who has featured in only one match this season, will also not be returning.

To bolster their squad, DC have called in South African talent Tristan Stubbs for the remaining three league matches. However, Stubbs — who is part of South Africa’s World Test Championship Final squad — will be unavailable for the playoffs, should Delhi qualify. There is still no update on the availability of DC vice-captain Faf du Plessis.

On the other hand, Punjab Kings will be without Marcus Stoinis and Josh Inglis for their first match after the tournament resumes on May 18, though both have confirmed participation thereafter.

Meanwhile, MI’s Will Jacks confirmed his return via Instagram, posting a photo of his flight ticket to Mumbai.

However, like England teammate Jos Buttler, Jacks will depart for international duty after MI’s last two league games due to England’s upcoming white-ball series against the West Indies starting May 29.

The playoff stage of the IPL is now scheduled to run until June 3, extending beyond the original May 25 finish and clashing with international assignments of several key players from England, South Africa, Australia, and the West Indies.

As the season heads into its business end, these developments are set to play a pivotal role in shaping team fortunes — especially for franchises like Delhi and Mumbai, still fighting to secure a playoff berth.