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Faf du Plessis Chooses PSL Over IPL; Withdraws From Auction
Follow UsHe exits the IPL as one of its most prolific overseas batters, ranking fourth on the all-time list
Veteran South African batter Faf du Plessis has withdrawn from the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction, confirming that he will instead make himself available for the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL). Notably, both the leagues’ schedules are clashing, and the Proteas batter chose to go with the PSL instead of the IPL.
The 41-year-old, who was released by Delhi Capitals ahead of the auction, issued a detailed statement explaining his decision and the reasons behind the change in direction at this stage of his career. Du Plessis said he had given the decision “a lot of thought,” and felt that committing to a single league over the next few months was the most practical option.
“I have decided that I won’t be entering my name in the IPL auction this year,” he said.
“After considering my schedule and where I am in my career, I believe it’s the right time to focus on opportunities that allow me to manage my workload better,” du Plessis mentioned in his statement.
“The IPL has been a massive part of my life, and I’m grateful for everything — the fans, the franchises, the teammates. But at this stage, I have to be honest with myself about what’s best for my body and my game,” he added.
Du Plessis had a quiet IPL 2025 season with Delhi Capitals, scoring 202 runs in nine matches, and did not receive a retention ahead of the 2026 auction. He exits the IPL as one of its most prolific overseas batters, ranking fourth on the all-time list.
Over the years, he represented Chennai Super Kings, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Rising Pune Supergiants and, most recently, Delhi Capitals, winning the title twice with CSK. He is no stranger to the PSL either, having featured in six matches between 2019 and 2021 for Peshawar Zalmi and Quetta Gladiators
Du Plessis explained that the PSL offered a window that aligned better with his physical management and commitments. The former South Africa and Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain also hinted that his decision was part of a broader effort to extend his playing career responsibly.
“The PSL is a tournament I’ve enjoyed playing in, and the timing works well for me. I’m really looking forward to being part of it again,” he said.
“I still love the game deeply, and I want to keep contributing for as long as I can. To do that, I need to make smarter choices about where I play and how often.”