Former South African captain Faf du Plessis announced on Saturday that he will not be playing in the Indian Premier League for the first time in 14 years. Instead, he will be looking at a chance to play in the Pakistan Super League in 2026.
According to the seasoned batter, he will instead participate in the Pakistan Super League in 2026.
From 2012 to 2025, Du Plessis played in 154 IPL games. He spent seven seasons with the Chennai Super Kings, where he won two IPL titles in 2018 and 2021. He also played for Royal Challengers Bengaluru for three seasons, Rising Pune Supergiants for two seasons, and Delhi Capitals for one season in IPL 2024.
He scored just 202 runs at an average of 22.44 with two fifties in nine games during his last season with the Delhi Capitals. The 41-year-old South African stated that in search of a fresh challenge in his career, he has chosen to play in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
He thanked coaches, teammates, and fans for their support and conveyed his gratitude for his IPL experience.
The IPL auction for 2026 is scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi on December 16. The players’ auction this year will be a mini one that will be finished in a single day, in contrast to the big auctions.
”After 14 seasons in the IPL, I’ve decided not to put my name into the auction this year. It’s a big decision, and one that comes with a lot of gratitude when I look back. This league has been a massive part of my journey. I’ve been lucky to play with world-class teammates, for amazing franchises, and in front of fans whose passion is like nothing else,” du Plessis posted on his social media handles.
”India has given me friendships, lessons, and memories that have shaped me as a cricketer and as a person. To every coach, teammate, support staff member, and every fan who has backed me over the years – thank you. Your support has meant the world.”
”Fourteen years is a long time, and I’m proud of what this chapter has meant to me. India has a special place in my heart, and this certainly isn’t goodbye – you’ll see me again. This year, I’ve chosen to take on a new challenge and will be playing in the upcoming PSL season. It’s 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. A new country. A new environment. A new challenge. I’m looking forward to the Pakistan hospitality. See you all soon.”
