Former South African captain Faf du Plessis has announced that he will not participate in the Indian Premier League for the first time in 14 years, marking the end of a significant chapter in his cricketing career. The veteran batter confirmed he will instead explore an opportunity in the Pakistan Super League in 2026.

What prompted the decision?

Du Plessis, who made his IPL debut for Chennai Super Kings in 2012 and immediately impressed with 398 runs, said the choice came with “a lot of gratitude”.

“After 14 seasons in the IPL, I've decided not to put my name into the auction this year. It's a big decision, and one that comes with a lot of gratitude when I look back. This league has been a massive part of my journey,” he posted on X.

He won two IPL titles with CSK in 2018 and 2021, later captaining Royal Challengers Bengaluru between 2022 and 2024.

What did he say about India and the IPL?

Du Plessis said the IPL remained close to his heart and stressed that his exit was not permanent.

“I've been lucky to play with world-class teammates, for amazing franchises, and in front of fans whose passion is like nothing else… India has a special place in my heart, and this certainly isn't a goodbye - you'll see me again,” he wrote.

Why shift to the PSL?

The 41-year-old said he is ready for a new challenge and confirmed he will feature in the PSL between March and May 2026, a period that overlaps with the IPL.

“This year, I've chosen to take on a new challenge and will be playing in the upcoming PSL season. It's an exciting step for me - a chance to experience something new, to grow it as a player, and to embrace a league filled with incredible talent and energy,” he said.

Du Plessis has previously appeared in the PSL for Quetta Gladiators and Peshawar Zalmi, featuring in six matches over two seasons.

What does his IPL record look like?

Across 154 IPL matches, du Plessis scored 4,773 runs at an average of 35.09. Apart from CSK and RCB, he represented Rising Pune Super Giants in 2016 and 2017.

Ahead of IPL 2025, Delhi Capitals bought him, but he managed only 202 runs from nine matches, averaging 22.44 with two fifties.