Faf du Plessis Skips IPL 2026 Auction for PSL

Former South African captain Faf du Plessis announced on November 29, 2025, that he will skip the Indian Premier League's 2026 mini auction, opting instead to play in the Pakistan Super League season that overlaps with the IPL's schedule. The 40-year-old batter, a fixture in the IPL for 14 years, shared the decision via a post on social media, expressing excitement for a new challenge while affirming his enduring connection to the Indian tournament.

Du Plessis, who was released by the Delhi Capitals ahead of the December 16 auction in Abu Dhabi, cited the leagues' concurrent March-May windows as a key factor in his choice. Since 2025, the PSL has aligned its dates with the IPL, forcing many international players to select one over the other. "As one chapter closes, another one opens," du Plessis wrote. "I'm excited to share that I'll be joining the PSL next season. I can't wait to be part of the energy and talent of this league." He described the move as "an exciting step for me, a chance to experience something new, to grow as a player, and to embrace a league filled with incredible talent and energy."

Throughout his IPL career, which began in 2012 with the Chennai Super Kings,...