Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) were dealt a hard blow before IPL 2025 resumes on May 17. RR's ace pacer Jofra Archer, who was going to play the last two league matches, has been ruled out with a new injury, shattering hopes of his availability for the tournament. On the other hand, CSK's ace all-rounder Sam Curran has decided not to return to India; the team is already eliminated from the playoff race, currently placed in 10th position with 6 points from 12 matches.

The IPL was postponed for a week on May 9 when tensions between Pakistan and India escalated, resulting in air raid alerts during a Punjab Kings vs. Delhi Capitals match in Dharamsala. A May 10 ceasefire relieved pressure, and the BCCI moved to reschedule the tournament with the final then fixed for June 3. But the teams are still dealing with the fallout of the no-shows caused by injuries and national duties, notably to vital overseas players Archer and Curran, affecting especially RR, at 9th place with 6 points, and CSK as they run through the balance of matches.

For RR, Archer's injury is a significant blow since he was meant to strengthen their bowling attack in the pivotal latter part of the tournament. An RR official confirmed that Archer will not be taking any more part in the IPL, although there's no indication of an interim replacement. CSK has opted not to apply for a replacement for Curran because of his ongoing injury and the need to focus on getting him fit rather than on a return, with them now out of playoff contention.

Uncertainty Surrounds Other English Players

The report further points out that a number of English players, such as Jos Buttler, Jacob Bethell, Will Jacks, and Liam Livingstone, are heading back to India for the resumption of the IPL. Yet, their presence in the playoff stage is uncertain owing to national obligations, namely England's white-ball series against the West Indies from May 23, which conflicts with the latter stages of the IPL.

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Also hanging in the balance is the availability of RCB's explosive opener Phil Salt, for whom the participation is still unclear, although other English players are back on the field. RCB, placed 2nd with 16 points from 11 games, will be hoping to get confirmation about Salt's availability as they seek to win their maiden IPL trophy for this delayed season.