Gujarat Titans Face Major Setback as Jos Buttler Misses IPL 2025 Playoffs
The Gujarat Titans are facing a critical challenge as star player Jos Buttler will miss the IPL 2025 playoffs due to international commitments. With Buttler's absence, the team, which is currently at the top of the standings, will rely on Kusal Mendis as a temporary replacement. This article explores the implications of Buttler's exit and the Titans' quest for playoff qualification amidst rising tensions between India and Pakistan, which have led to a brief postponement of the tournament.
| May 15, 2025, 14:52 IST
Gujarat Titans' Playoff Challenge Intensifies
The Gujarat Titans, currently leading the IPL 2025 standings, have encountered a significant setback. Star wicketkeeper-batsman Jos Buttler, who has amassed 500 runs in the tournament, will not be available for the playoffs. The team's batting heavily relies on its top three players.
Alongside Buttler, both Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan have also crossed the 500-run mark. Thus, Buttler's absence in the playoffs is a considerable blow. Additionally, the team has limited options for wicketkeeping. However, the Titans have found a temporary replacement for Buttler. According to reports, Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batsman Kusal Mendis will step in for him.
Mendis is likely to be included directly in the Titans' playing XI, given the limited wicketkeeping alternatives available to Shubman Gill's team. The only other contender is uncapped Anuj Rawat. Due to rising tensions between India and Pakistan, the IPL 2025 has been postponed for a week. The tournament is set to resume on May 17 following a ceasefire between the two nations.
The IPL 2025 matches will take place from May 17 to June 3. Meanwhile, England is scheduled to play ODI and T20 series against the West Indies. Jos Buttler has been selected for both series, which is why he will miss the IPL 2025 playoffs.
Currently, the Gujarat Titans sit at the top of the points table with 16 points from 11 matches, just one win away from securing qualification. This season, Buttler has scored 500 runs at an impressive average of 71.43 while batting at number three. The likelihood of this English star participating in the last three league matches remains uncertain.