Former Australian pacer Mitchell Johnson, who has previously played in the IPL, has urged his fellow Australian players not to return for the final leg of IPL 2025.
The tournament resumes on May 17 with RCB and KKR playing the first game in Bengaluru. There is great anticipation regarding the start of the IPL after it was postponed for a week. The BCCI on May 9 announced the tournament to be postponed by a week.
Earlier this week, the BCCI decided to resume the season from May 17. As soon as the resumption became official, the return of the overseas players for the remaining leg became a talking point.
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Players Might Be Hesitant To Return - Mitchell Johnson
Several Engalnd players have backed out with a few expected to miss the playoffs. There are a few Australian players whose availability is in question. Mitchell Starc has backed out due to personal reasons, with Josh Hazlewood, whose availability was doubtful previously, now confirmed. The likes of Josh Inglish and Marcus Stoinis, who are part of Punjab Kings, there availability is in question as well.
In his column for West Australia, Mitchell Johnson has warned the Australian players not to return to the IPL and prioritise their safety and security.
"Cricket might involve mega bucks these days, but it is still just a game, and that has been brought sharply into focus after the Indian Premier League’s hiatus this week. Given the rising military tensions between India and Pakistan after their recent conflict, and the heightened risk during the ceasefire, which isn’t a guarantee for safety, it’s understandable that players might be hesitant to return to an environment they fled due to safety concerns," writes Johnson in his column.
"While Cricket Australia has empowered players to make their own decisions, the weight of those choices can be heavy. Opting not to play could lead to disappointment or even professional and financial repercussions down the track, but prioritising safety is first and foremost," he further wrote.
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Cricket Australia Gives Free Will To Players For IPL Return
He further wrote that it is upto the players to return in the IPL or not and that they should not be forced to return in the IPL and PSL both. He also outlined the importance of the WTC final for Australia and the importance of the availability of their key players as well.
Previously, Cricket Australia stated that it is upto the players whether they want to return to the IPL or not, and as a board, they will back the decision of their players.
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