Former IPL Star Chooses PSL Over IPL After 14 Seasons: Faf du Plessis, one of the most respected overseas players in IPL history, will not be part of IPL 2026. The former South African batter has officially opted out of the IPL 2026 auction, bringing an end to a long and memorable 14-season journey in the league.
Instead of continuing in the IPL, the 41-year-old has decided to play in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026, calling it a new challenge in a new environment.
Faf du Plessis’ Emotional Decision Explained
Faf du Plessis shared a heartfelt message on social media explaining why he chose to skip the IPL auction for the first time since 2012.
He said that after 14 seasons in the IPL, it felt like the right moment to step away and reflect with gratitude on everything the league has given him — as a cricketer and as a person.
Faf du Plessis' statement as he withdrew from the IPL 2026 auction ✍️ pic.twitter.com/w3IP2GlUmd
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) November 29, 2025
According to Faf:
- IPL shaped a major part of his career
- He played with world-class teammates
- Represented iconic franchises
- Experienced unmatched fan passion in India
He made it clear that this decision is not a permanent goodbye, and India will always hold a special place in his heart.
Read Also:- IPL vs PSL (2025): Viewership, Valuation, Brand Value
Why Faf du Plessis Chose PSL 2026
For the 2026 season, Faf du Plessis has chosen to:
- Explore a new league
- Play in a new country
- Experience a different cricketing environment
He described PSL as a league full of energy, talent, and excitement, and said he is looking forward to Pakistan’s hospitality.
Importantly, this decision is driven by personal motivation and career choice, not due to injury or form concerns.
Faf du Plessis’ IPL Career at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| IPL Debut | 2012 |
| IPL Seasons Played | 14 |
| Total Matches | 154 |
| Total Runs | 4,773 |
| Batting Average | 35.10 |
| Half-Centuries | 39 |
| Highest Score | 96 |
| Teams Played For | CSK, RPS, RCB, DC |
| IPL Titles | 2 (with CSK) |
Faf du Plessis is the fourth-highest run-scorer among overseas players in IPL history, underlining his consistency and longevity.
His Final IPL Season: 2025 with Delhi Capitals
In IPL 2025, Faf du Plessis played for Delhi Capitals after being picked in the auction.
- Matches: 9
- Runs Scored: 202
- Average: 22.44
He also captained DC in two matches when the regular captain was unavailable.
However, after the season, Delhi Capitals released him ahead of the IPL 2026 auction.
Teams Faf du Plessis Represented in IPL
- Chennai Super Kings (CSK) – Titles in 2018 & 2021
- Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS)
- Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) – Captain from 2022
- Delhi Capitals (DC) – Final IPL season in 2025
His most productive batting phase came between 2020 and 2024, where he consistently featured among the top run-scorers.
Also Know:- IPL vs PSL 2026: Pakistan’s Bold Decision Sparks
Will Faf du Plessis Return to the IPL?
Yes — the door is not closed.
Faf du Plessis clearly stated that this is not a farewell forever. He has left open the possibility of returning to the IPL in the future, depending on circumstances.
For now, IPL 2026 will move ahead without one of its most iconic overseas players, marking the end of an era.
Final Thoughts
Faf du Plessis opting out of IPL 2026 is a personal and well-thought-out decision, driven by gratitude, reflection, and the desire for a fresh challenge.
After 14 memorable seasons, countless runs, and unforgettable leadership moments, his absence will surely be felt — but his legacy in the IPL remains strong.
