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Faf du Plessis announces he will skip IPL 2026 after 14 years, choosing to play in the Pakistan Super League instead of entering the mini auction.
Faf du Plessis scored 202 runs in nine matches in IPL 2025 (Picture credit: AFP)
Star South Africa batter Faf du Plessis has said that he would not be a part of the upcoming IPL 2026 mini auction, adding that he would skip the tournament after 14 years of featuring in it and would instead travel to play the Pakistan Super League, which will coincide with the IPL.
In a statement, Du Plessis confirmed that he will play in the Pakistan Super League instead. The Chennai Super Kings stalwart and former Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain announced the decision on Sunday, November 29, two weeks ahead of the IPL auction on December 15 in Abu Dhabi.
Du Plessis has been a sought-after overseas cricketer in the Indian Premier League. Since debuting for Chennai Super Kings in 2013, he spent seven seasons with the MS Dhoni-led team and also played under Dhoni for Rising Pune Supergiant in 2016 and 2017.
“After 14 seasons in the IPL, I have decided not to put my name in the auction this year. It is a big decision and one that comes with a lot of gratitude when I look back,” Du Plessis wrote on an Instagram post.
“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,” Du Plessis said.
“India has a special place in my heart and this is not goodbye; you will see me again,” Du Plessis added.
After amassing 633 runs in CSK’s title-winning 2021 campaign, the star South Africa batter was released by the franchise. At the IPL 2022 auction, Royal Challengers Bangalore outbid CSK to sign du Plessis and named him skipper for the 2022–2024 seasons. He continued to shine with the bat, enjoying a standout 2023 season with 730 runs in 14 games.
November 29, 2025, 19:32 IST
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