If you follow the IPL, you’ve seen a lot of buzz around playoff replacements. A replacement can change a team’s chances in an instant, especially when a star like Jos Buttler is out. This page gives you a quick rundown of the most recent swaps, why teams choose them, and what you should watch for as the playoffs get closer.
Playoff matches are high pressure, so teams want the best possible squad. Injuries, national duties, or personal reasons can force a key player out. Rather than sit with a weaker side, franchises bring in a ready‑to‑play replacement. The IPL rules let teams register a few extra players who can be called up right before a match, keeping the line‑up fresh.
For example, Gujarat Titans needed a quick fix when Jos Buttler missed the playoffs because of England’s ODI schedule. They turned to Kusal Mendis, a Sri Lankan batsman who’s been in good form in the PSL. It’s a classic win‑win: the team fills a gap, and the replacement gets a chance to shine on a massive stage.
The biggest headline this season is the Titans signing Kusal Mendis as Buttler’s replacement. Mendis will debut in the playoffs, a first for any IPL team. If he scores well, it could boost his career and give the Titans an extra firepower boost.
Another notable swap happened with KKR. After a string of losses, they reshuffled their batting order and brought in a new bowler for the crucial match against PBKS at Eden Gardens. The pitch is expected to help spinners later in the evening, so the change could tip the balance.
Even though the news feed lists many other topics—flood alerts, court cases, and celebrity updates—the playoff replacement stories stand out for cricket fans. They illustrate how a single roster change can swing a game, especially when the match is on a big venue like Eden Gardens or the IGI‑adjacent stadiums.
Keep an eye on the player’s visa status, fitness reports, and team announcements. A replacement who clears all those hurdles can become the unexpected hero of the playoffs.
In short, playoff replacements are all about timing and impact. Whether it’s a seasoned international like Mendis or a local talent stepping up, the right move can make the difference between a trophy and a missed chance. Stay tuned to our updates for the latest moves, player reactions, and match results as the IPL 2025 playoffs unfold.
Mumbai Indians have added three international stars—Jonny Bairstow, Charith Asalanka, and Richard Gleeson—as stand-in replacements for key departing players ahead of IPL 2025 playoffs. Their inclusion depends on MI making the playoffs, with crucial matches ahead that will determine the team's fate.