Cricket South Africa has presented its template for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025which will take place in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates. The team has a balanced mix of experienced players and new talents, aiming to pose a serious challenge for the prestigious title. However, the announcement has also highlighted the absence of some prominent South African cricketers who will instead showcase their skills in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.
Proteas cricketers have consistently delivered stellar performances in the IPL, making them highly sought-after players in the tournament. However, a notable group of these stars have not been included in South Africa’s Champions Trophy squad. Factors such as injuries, lack of international experience and personal commitments have contributed to his exclusion.
South African players who will participate in IPL 2025 but will not represent their nation in the Champions Trophy
1. Faf du Plessis (Delhi Capitals)
Former South African captain Faf du PlessisKnown for his leadership and batting prowess, he will play for Capitals of Delhi in IPL 2025 after being bought for INR 2 crores. Du Plessis, who last played an ODI in June 2019, has prioritized franchise cricket over international commitments, leading to his omission from the Champions Trophy squad.
2. Gerald Coetzee (Gujarat Titans)
fast bowler Geraldine Coetzeebought by Gujarat Titans INR 2.40 crore, is absent from the Champions Trophy squad due to a nagging groin injury. The 24-year-old has been sidelined since South Africa’s test series against Sri Lankaand his return to the national team remains uncertain.
Also READ: Reason why Pakistan has not announced its ODI team for Champions Trophy 2025
3. Donovan Ferreira (Delhi Capitals)
batsman-wicketkeeper Donovan Ferreiraacquired by Delhi Capitals for INR 75 lakhs, is yet to make his ODI debut. Despite his potential, South African selectors overlooked him for the Champions Trophy, citing his lack of experience on the international stage.
4. Quinton de Kock (Kolkata Knights Riders)
batsman-wicketkeeper Quinton de Kockwho joined Riders of the Knights of Calcutta for INR 6.30 crore, remains a high-profile absentee. De Kock retired from Test cricket in 2021 to focus on limited overs formats, but has not represented South Africa since the 2024 T20 World Cup. His uncertain availability for international duties has contributed to his exclusion.
5. Matthew Breetzke (Lucknow Supergiants)
first order mass Matthew Breetzkebought by Lucknow Supergiants for INR 75 lakhs, is another name missing from the Champions Trophy squad. At 26, Breetzke is yet to make his ODI debut and the selectors opted not to include him due to his limited exposure in international cricket.
6. Lizaad Williams (Mumbai Indians)
Right middle arm pacemaker Lizad Williamswho got INR 75 lakhs from Bombay IndiansHe is also absent from the Champions Trophy lineup. Although he will be part of South Africa’s ODI squad in 2024, injury problems have sidelined the 31-year-old, leaving the timeline for his recovery uncertain.
7. Kwena Maphaka (Rajasthan Royals)
The 18-year-old left-arm fast bowler you are the catsbought by Rajasthan Royals for INR 1.50 crore, has impressed in domestic cricket but lacks experience in overseas conditions. Despite his promising talent, Maphaka’s inexperience in international cricket led to his exclusion from the Champions Trophy squad.