IPL to Let Stopgap Picks for Absent Overseas Players

The IPL resumes on Saturday following a break forced by conflict between India and Pakistan, but a number of foreign players are unavailable as they have to return to national duty.

- HT Correspondent

NEW DELHI: The BCCI on Wednesday allowed temporary replacements for the remainder of the event to allow franchises to fill up the vacant spots.

These players, however, will not be eligible for retention before the next edition. They will have to register afresh for IPL 2026 auction. The tournament will restart on Saturday with the match between RCB and KKR in Bengaluru, with the final set for June 3. The new dates clash with international fixtures such as the World Test Championship final between Australia and South Africa and the West Indies tour of England approaching. "Given the non-availability of certain foreigners due to national commitments or personal reasons or any injury or illness, Temporary Replacement Players will be allowed until the conclusion of this tournament," IPL informed the franchises in a memo.