As the Indian Premier League 2025 gears up for a dramatic restart after a brief pause, three franchises-Punjab Kings (PBKS), Gujarat Titans (GT), and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)-have announced significant player replacements. These changes, prompted by injuries and international commitments, are set to reshape team strategies as the tournament enters its crucial final phase.
Punjab Kings Sign Kyle Jamieson to Replace Lockie Ferguson
Injury Forces Change in PBKS Pace Attack
Punjab Kings have secured the services of New Zealand’s towering pacer Kyle Jamieson as a replacement for Lockie Ferguson, who has been ruled out for the remainder of IPL 2025 due to a hamstring injury. Ferguson’s absence is a blow for PBKS, as he had already made an impact with five wickets in four matches this season before injury struck.
Key Details:
Replacement: Kyle Jamieson (New Zealand)
Outgoing: Lockie Ferguson (hamstring injury)
Contract Value: INR 2 Crore
Jamieson, known for his bounce and ability to swing the ball, brings international pedigree and IPL experience to PBKS, aiming to bolster their pace department at a critical juncture.
Gujarat Titans Bring in Kusal Mendis for Jos Buttler
Buttler Leaves for National Duty, Mendis Steps In
Gujarat Titans face a major change as their star wicketkeeper-batter Jos Buttler departs after the final league-stage game on May 25 to fulfill national duties with England. To fill the void, GT have signed Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batter Kusal Mendis, effective from May 26.
Key Details:
Replacement: Kusal Mendis (Sri Lanka)
Outgoing: Jos Buttler (national duty)
Contract Value: INR 75 Lakh
Buttler’s exit is significant, given his 500 runs this season and his pivotal role in GT’s campaign. Mendis, with his aggressive batting and keeping skills, will look to make an immediate impact as GT push for playoff glory.
Lucknow Super Giants Rope in William O’Rourke for Mayank Yadav
Injury Sidelines Yadav, O’Rourke Joins the Squad
Lucknow Super Giants have been forced to make a change in their pace attack, with young Indian quick Mayank Yadav ruled out due to a back injury. LSG have turned to New Zealand’s William O’Rourke as his replacement, signing him at a reserve price of INR 3 crore.
Key Details:
Replacement: William O’Rourke (New Zealand)
Outgoing: Mayank Yadav (back injury)
Contract Value: INR 3 Crore
O’Rourke, a promising pacer, is expected to add depth and variety to LSG’s bowling arsenal as they aim to stay competitive in the business end of the season.
What These Replacements Mean for the Teams
Punjab Kings: Jamieson’s arrival helps offset the loss of Ferguson, maintaining a strong Kiwi presence in the pace attack.
Gujarat Titans: Mendis will be under pressure to fill Buttler’s shoes, especially as GT eye a top finish.
Lucknow Super Giants: O’Rourke’s inclusion gives LSG a fresh fast-bowling option as they cope with Yadav’s absence.
With the IPL resuming on May 17, these replacements could prove decisive in shaping the playoff race.
FAQs: IPL 2025 Player Replacements
Q1: Why did PBKS, GT, and LSG announce replacements?
A: PBKS and LSG needed replacements due to injuries to Lockie Ferguson and Mayank Yadav, while GT’s Jos Buttler is leaving for national duty.
Q2: Who is replacing Jos Buttler at Gujarat Titans?
A: Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batter Kusal Mendis will replace Jos Buttler for the remainder of the season.
Q3: What is the contract value for the new replacements?
A: Kyle Jamieson joins PBKS for INR 2 crore, Kusal Mendis joins GT for INR 75 lakh, and William O’Rourke joins LSG for INR 3 crore.
Q4: When will these replacements be effective?
A: Kusal Mendis will join GT after May 25, while Jamieson and O’Rourke are available immediately for PBKS and LSG, respectively.
Q5: How will these changes impact the teams?
A: The replacements are set to play crucial roles as their teams battle for playoff spots, especially with the IPL entering its decisive phase.
Conclusion
The IPL 2025 season’s resumption brings not just renewed excitement but also fresh faces for PBKS, GT, and LSG. With Jamieson, Mendis, and O’Rourke stepping in, the race to the playoffs promises to be even more thrilling. Fans will be eager to see how these strategic moves influence the fortunes of their favorite teams as the competition heats up.