The Gujarat Titans have suffered a major setback in the playoff race in IPL 2025. Jose Butler, the star batsman of the team, who performed brilliantly this season, has been included in England’s squad for the limited overs series against the West Indies, due to which there is doubt about playing in his playoffs. The team, meanwhile, has included Sri Lankan explosive wicketkeeper batsman in the team as a replacement without losing time.
Let us know that after the Pahalgam attack in the past, due to increasing tension between India and Pakistan, it was suspended for some time. Now the new matches of the tournament are going to start from May 17 and the final will now be held on June 3. Due to this change, the schedule of many foreign players has gone awry and they are being forced to return to their respective countries.
Butler crushed 500 runs in 11 matches
Significantly, in the IPL 2025 mega auction, Gujarat Titans bought Jose Butler for Rs 15.75 crore. So far this season, Butler had scored 500 runs in 11 matches while batting amazing. Which included 5 half -centuries.
Now this Sri Lankan player is ready to explode in IPL except PSL
In view of Butler’s absence, the franchise has decided to include veteran Sri Lankan player Kusal Mendis. Kusal Mendis was recently seen playing for Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), where he played the last match on 7 May. According to media reports, Mendis has now refused to participate in PSL’s remaining matches due to security reasons.
This opportunity can prove to be a big break for Kusal Mendis, who has been wanting to play in the IPL for a long time. The inclusion of him in the squad instead of Jose Butler by Gujarat Titans is not only a new beginning for his career, but also a strong option for the team.
Mendis’s T20 career
Kusal Mendis has played 172 T20 matches so far in which he has scored 4718 runs at an average of 30.24. His name has 2 centuries and 32 half -centuries, while his strike rate has been 137.43. Along with wicketkeeping, the ability of aggressive batting makes him suitable for pressure matches like playoffs.
Gujarat Titans status
Gujarat Titans currently ranks first in the points table by winning 8 out of 11 matches. The team is yet to play three more matches in the league stage. If she registers another win of these, she will confirm her place in the playoffs. His next match will be against Delhi Capitals on 18 May.
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