Faf & Stubbs Back for DC Starc Ferreira Exit IPL 2025
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1. Introduction: Key Updates Ahead of IPL 2025 Resumption
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to resume after a brief suspension, and Delhi Capitals (DC) have made headlines with a major update on their squad. South African veterans Faf du Plessis and Tristan Stubbs have rejoined the franchise ahead of their upcoming fixture against Gujarat Titans in Delhi. However, in a blow to the team’s balance, Mitchell Starc and Donovan Ferreira have been ruled out of the remainder of the season.
As teams prepare for the crucial second half of IPL 2025, these changes are expected to significantly impact DC’s campaign going forward.
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2. Du Plessis and Stubbs Return to Strengthen Delhi Capitals
In an official press release issued on Saturday, Delhi Capitals confirmed the return of two South African stalwarts — vice-captain Faf du Plessis and middle-order batter Tristan Stubbs. Their re-entry into the squad provides a timely boost as the tournament enters its most competitive phase.
“JSW and GMR co-owned franchise Delhi Capitals on Saturday confirmed that Vice-captain Faf du Plessis and teammate Tristan Stubbs have rejoined the team ahead of the resumption of IPL 2025,” the statement read.
The return of these experienced campaigners is expected to bolster Delhi’s batting unit, which has struggled for consistency in the first half of the tournament.
3. Mitchell Starc, Donovan Ferreira Rule Themselves Out
While DC welcomed back two key players, they also confirmed the unavailability of Australian pace spearhead Mitchell Starc and South African all-rounder Donovan Ferreira for the rest of the season. Both players have reportedly opted out due to personal concerns and team-related decisions.
“The franchise has also confirmed that Australian pacer Mitchell Starc and South African all-rounder Donovan Ferreira are currently unavailable. Delhi Capitals fully respects their decision and extends its support and best wishes for their continued success,” the official statement added.
Starc’s absence, in particular, will be a major blow as he was among the most expensive players in IPL 2025 and a central figure in DC’s pace attack.
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4. Mustafizur Rahman Joins as Replacement for Jake Fraser-McGurk
In a related move, Delhi Capitals have signed Bangladesh medium pacer Mustafizur Rahman as a replacement for Australian top-order batter Jake Fraser-McGurk, who is also unavailable for the remainder of the season.
Mustafizur brings with him vast IPL experience, having previously played for multiple franchises including Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals. Known for his deceptive slower balls and effectiveness at the death, his inclusion adds variety and depth to the bowling line-up.
5. Conflict and Uncertainty: Reason Behind Temporary Suspension
The 2025 season of the IPL faced a temporary suspension following escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, which led to growing concerns over the safety of players, especially foreign nationals. Several overseas players exited India amidst fears of instability and security threats.
The decision to pause the league was taken as a precautionary measure. While most players returned to their home countries, a few stayed back under the assurance of security from the BCCI.
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6. Alyssa Healy Sheds Light on Australia’s Anxiety
Australia’s women’s team captain and Starc’s wife, Alyssa Healy, spoke about the tense situation in Dharamsala during the conflict. On the Willow Talk podcast, she described how players were left in a state of confusion due to limited and unclear information.
“There was a lot of anxiety around the Australian group because we didn’t have a whole heap of information as to what was going on,” she said.
“That’s probably been the really interesting and probably the scariest part of this whole situation — the misinformation. Quite close to what’s being fought over, but we were assured everything was fine, ‘everything is OK, it’s miles away, the game will go ahead and everything will be fine’.”
Her remarks shed light on the emotional and mental toll that such off-field circumstances can have on international cricketers.
7. DC vs GT: Crucial Clash as IPL 2025 Resumes
With the league now set to resume, Delhi Capitals will return to action against Gujarat Titans on Sunday at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. The return of du Plessis and Stubbs will be closely watched as DC aims to recover momentum and climb the points table.
DC currently finds itself in the mid-table tussle, and with a few key players unavailable, the road ahead is challenging. However, the return of experienced players could be the difference in high-pressure situations.
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8. What This Means for Delhi Capitals Going Forward
The remainder of the 2025 season is crucial for Delhi Capitals. With du Plessis’ leadership and Stubbs’ finishing ability, DC can still build a strong core. The bowling unit, which will now feature Mustafizur Rahman, will need to adapt in the absence of Starc.
Coach Ricky Ponting and captain Rishabh Pant will now have to recalibrate their strategies and find the right balance between overseas and domestic players in the XI. The team’s depth will be tested, and so will their resilience.
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9. Conclusion: A Season of Twists and Challenges
IPL 2025 has already been one of the most dramatic editions in the league’s history, and we’re only halfway through. With off-field conflicts, player withdrawals, and new signings, the tournament continues to evolve every day.
As Delhi Capitals look to push for a spot in the playoffs, the return of experienced international players like Faf du Plessis and Tristan Stubbs gives them renewed hope. With Mustafizur’s inclusion and a home match advantage, DC fans will be expecting a strong comeback performance on Sunday.
Stay tuned to CrickTab.com for all the latest updates, match previews, and in-depth analysis on IPL 2025.
