Mumbai, May 30, 2025 — Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has spoken out about the trend of overseas players leaving the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 ahead of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. With several international stars choosing to prioritize their national teams, IPL franchises are facing unexpected challenges.
As the WTC final approaches soon after the IPL playoffs, players from countries including Australia, England, and New Zealand have begun to withdraw from the tournament to prepare for the important Test match. Hazlewood stressed the significance of the WTC final, calling it a major event in the world of Test cricket.
“The WTC final is a big occasion. Players want to represent their countries in such important matches,” Hazlewood said. His remarks highlight the tough decisions players must make between franchise commitments and international cricket.
The sudden departure of key players has forced IPL teams to quickly adjust their squads, drawing attention to scheduling conflicts in international cricket. Hazlewood emphasized the value of representing one’s country, noting that while franchise cricket offers great opportunities, Test cricket remains the core of the sport.
Cricket authorities, including the ICC, are now under pressure to better align international and franchise schedules to minimize clashes. Hazlewood’s comments underscore the importance of maintaining a balance between the commercial success of leagues like the IPL and preserving the integrity of international cricket.
As IPL 2025 nears its conclusion, the ongoing tension between franchise cricket and international duty continues to be a critical issue shaping the future of the sport globally.
