Kusal Mendis Joins Gujarat Titans for IPL 2025 Playoffs

Kusal Mendis to Replace Jos Buttler

Sri Lanka's wicketkeeper-batter, Kusal Mendis, is set to take Jos Buttler's place in the Gujarat Titans lineup for the IPL 2025 playoffs, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.

Buttler's absence is due to his selection for England's ODI squad for the home series against the West Indies, which kicks off on May 29, coinciding with the start of the IPL playoffs.

Mendis Withdraws from PSL 2025

Mendis was previously with the Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) until last week, where he served as their wicketkeeper-batter. His last match for them was on May 7.

However, he has opted out of the remaining PSL matches due to safety concerns and will now focus on participating in the IPL, a league he has not played in before, according to ESPNcricinfo.

Gujarat Titans' Wicketkeeping Options

The Gujarat Titans have two additional wicketkeeping alternatives in their squad: Anuj Rawat and Kumar Kushagra.

Despite this, Mendis has shown impressive form in the PSL 2025, scoring 143 runs at a strike rate of 168 across five matches.

Mendis' T20I Performance

In T20 internationals, Mendis has participated in 78 matches, accumulating 1920 runs with an average of 25.60 and a strike rate of 131.68. He has also achieved 15 fifties in T20I cricket.

ECB's NOC for Players

The England Cricket Board (ECB) has issued no-objection certificates (NOCs) for all players involved in the IPL until May 25, which was initially set as the date for the IPL 2025 final, according to ESPNcricinfo.

Buttler's Performance and Upcoming Matches

In the current IPL season, Buttler has scored 500 runs in 11 innings for the Gujarat Titans, boasting an impressive average of 71.43 and a strike rate of 163.93.

The Titans are currently leading the points table with eight wins and three losses in their 11 matches.

Their next match is scheduled against the Delhi Capitals on May 18 at the Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium in New Delhi.