South African veteran Faf du Plessis has officially withdrawn from the IPL 2026 auction. The 40-year-old confirmed that he will play in the upcoming Pakistan Super League season instead. The decision was announced just two weeks before the IPL auction in Abu Dhabi. It ends his long 14-year journey in the IPL.
Faf’s move is one of the biggest developments ahead of the new IPL season. He has been one of the most respected overseas players in the league. Over the years, he built a strong bond with Indian fans and franchises. His exit has surely created a major gap in the IPL auction pool.
Why did Faf du Plessis Opted Out of IPL 2026?
Faf Du Plessis shared his decision in an emotional statement. He said it was time for a new chapter in his career.
“After 14 seasons in the IPL, I’ve decided not to put my name into the auction this year,” he wrote. “This league has been a massive part of my journey. I’ve been lucky to play with world-class teammates, for amazing franchises, and in front of fans whose passion is like nothing else.”
He also made it clear that this is not a final goodbye to India.
“Fourteen years is a long time, and I’m proud of what this chapter has meant to me. India has a special place in my heart, and this certainly isn’t goodbye you’ll see me again.”
Faf first joined Chennai Super Kings in 2013. He later played for Rising Pune Supergiant, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Delhi Capitals. He also captained RCB for three seasons. His best IPL seasons included 633 runs in 2021 with CSK and 730 runs in 2023 with RCB.
In 154 IPL matches, he scored 4,773 runs at an average of 35.09 and a strike rate of 135.78.
Faf also confirmed his move to the PSL.
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“This year, I’ve chosen to take on a new challenge and will be playing in the upcoming PSL season,” he said. “A new country. A new environment. A new challenge. I’m looking forward to the Pakistan hospitality.”
For now, Faf steps away from the IPL. But his words suggest the door is still open for a future return.
