IPL or International duties? JBs from England under dilemma

The rearranged IPL 2025 playoffs have caused quite a stir for England's Jos Buttler, Jacob Bethell, and Will Jacks. Their availability for the IPL's resumption now hangs in the balance as they are named in England’s ODI squad for the series against the West Indies, which begins on May 29.

 

After cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan suspended the IPL, England players left the tournament. However, with the IPL now resuming on May 17, Buttler, Bethell, and Jacks face the tough decision of whether to honor their IPL contracts or prioritize their national duties. Buttler plays for Gujarat Titans, Bethell for Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Jacks for Mumbai Indians—teams still hoping to make it to the finals. Notably, the group stage matches will continue until May 27, with the playoffs stretching until June 3.

 

England's commitment to support the IPL was clear before the auction, promising full availability for the tournament's original dates. But with the new schedule, the final date now clashes with England’s crucial ODI series. ECB’s spokesperson confirmed that no objections were raised regarding the original dates, but the extension would need to be reviewed, particularly for players involved in both the IPL and the white-ball squad. An ECB spokesperson said on Tuesday,

 

"We're keen to support the IPL and the BCCI in getting the schedule up and running, and to facilitate players' return should they choose to go back. No Objection Certificates have been granted based on the original IPL dates, so we'll need to review any potential extensions, particularly in relation to any clash with the final white-ball squad. We'll continue to work closely with the BCCI and the IPL as the situation develops."

 

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A dilemma for both sides

 

The situation is further complicated by the inclusion of Jofra Archer and Jamie Overton in the ODI squad. While their IPL franchises, Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings, have already been eliminated from playoff contention, their participation in both events is unlikely to clash. Meanwhile, other English players like Liam Livingstone and Phil Salt will miss out on the ODI series, with Salt being added to the T20 squad instead.

 

The West Indies squad faces similar issues with Romario Shepherd and , both part of IPL teams. Shepherd and Rutherford, expected to miss their previous series, now find themselves caught between the West Indies' World Cup qualifying battle and the IPL's high stakes. The upcoming ODI series could ultimately decide their availability for both, as CWI works to find a resolution.