One of the IPL’s most loved overseas stars Faf du Plessis has officially drawn curtains on his storied association with the Indian Premier League for this season. The South African has opted out of the upcoming IPL 2026 auction; this will be Faf’s first season since 2012 that he will not be part of the league.
Du Plessis announced the decision through a message on social media on Saturday (November 29), revealing he will instead turn his attention to Pakistan’s PSL next year.
What did Faf du Plessis say?
“After 14 seasons in the IPL, I’ve decided not to put my name into the auction this year,” Du Plessis posted on social media. “This league has been a massive part of my journey… India has a special place in my heart, and this certainly isn’t a goodbye — you’ll see me again,” his post further read.
The former Proteas captain has previously featured in the PSL for Quetta Gladiators and Peshawar Zalmi and will now make a full-time switch to the league for its 2026 edition. Calling it “a new challenge”, he said he is excited to experience a fresh environment filled with “incredible talent and energy”.
“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. A new country. A new environment. A new challenge. I’m looking forward to the Pakistan hospitality,” he posted.
#PSLNewEra pic.twitter.com/Vqo8fFUjOs
— Faf Du Plessis (@faf1307) November 29, 2025
Impact debut
Du Plessis made an instant impression when he debuted for Chennai Super Kings in 2012, amassing 398 runs in his maiden season. His partnership with CSK grew into a highly successful chapter, including title triumphs in 2018 and 2021. Across his IPL journey, he developed a reputation as one of the format’s most reliable and stylish top-order batters.
His best phase came between 2020 and 2024 when he consistently finished among the top scorers of the tournament. In 2021, he fell just two runs short of the Orange Cap behind teammate Ruturaj Gaikwad as CSK secured another championship. A move to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2022 saw him take over leadership duties and he again finished as the second-highest run-getter in 2023.
Ahead of the 2025 season, Du Plessis signed with Delhi Capitals and was appointed vice-captain. However, a modest return of 202 runs at 22.44 led to his release before this year’s auction — paving the way for his next cricket adventure.
