South African batter Faf du Plessis has decided to skip the IPL 2026 auction and confirmed that he will play in the Pakistan Super League for the upcoming season. He shared that he wants a new experience and believes the league will offer a fresh challenge as he prepares for the next stage of his career. His decision surprised many cricket followers who expected him to continue in the IPL after a long and successful run.
Faf du Plessis Explains His Decision and Shares His PSL Plans
He said that he looks forward to joining the PSL and experiencing a different cricket environment. He added that the league holds great energy and offers a strong competitive field. His words also reflected his excitement to play in front of Pakistan’s passionate fans. He praised local hospitality and said that he is eager to experience it again after his previous PSL appearances.
Du Plessis played nine matches for Delhi Capitals in the 2025 IPL season. He scored 202 runs and stepped in as captain for two matches when Axar Patel was injured. The franchise released him before the 2026 auction window, which opened the door for new opportunities. His shift to the PSL comes at a time when many teams are preparing their squads for the next edition.
His IPL career spans more than a decade. He has played 154 matches across his time with several teams, including Chennai Super Kings, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Delhi Capitals, and Rising Pune Supergiants. He holds the position of the fourth highest overseas run scorer in the tournament and won two IPL titles with Chennai Super Kings. His long career in the league makes his latest decision even more notable for cricket fans across the world.
This is not his first experience with the PSL. He featured in six matches between 2019 and 2021 and represented Peshawar Zalmi and Quetta Gladiators. His earlier stint earned praise for his experience and batting stability. Many PSL teams will now consider him as a strong addition for the 2026 season.
The schedules of the IPL and PSL overlap next year. The IPL 2026 season is set for March to May while the PSL will take place from April to May. Due to this clash, he could only pick one competition. His choice to play in the PSL suggests that he wants to explore a different cricket market and take on a new challenge.
Cricket followers across Pakistan have welcomed his decision. They believe that his presence will add value to the league and motivate younger players. Teams are expected to show interest as they prepare for squad selections. His joining also highlights the growing global interest in the PSL as many international players continue to explore the tournament.
Also read Ducky Bhai’s First Media Appearance After Bail Raises Concerns
His move sets the stage for an exciting season as fans wait to see which team secures him for 2026. With his experience and consistent performances, he will likely play a key role in the league. His decision has already become one of the most discussed cricket stories of the week and the buildup to the next PSL season continues to grow.
