Kusal Mendis Set to Replace Jos Buttler in Gujarat Titans for IPL Playoffs
Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batsman Kusal Mendis is to join the Gujarat Titans (GT) squad as a temporary replacement for England's Jos Buttler for the remainder of the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Buttler's anticipated departure after GT's league matches is due to the limited over matches against the West Indies, which clashed with the IPL playoff schedule.
Jos Buttler, who has been in exceptional form for the table-topping Gujarat Titans, smashing 500 runs at an average of 71.43 while batting at number three, is expected to play in GT's final three league-stage fixtures. However, his international commitments with England, whose series against the West Indies commences on May 29th – the same day as the IPL Qualifier 1 – necessitate his early departure. Consequently, Kusal Mendis is tipped to be drafted into the GT setup. Given GT's limited specialist wicketkeeping options beyond Buttler (with uncapped Anuj Rawat being the other), Mendis is likely to be a strong contender for immediate inclusion in the playing XI.
Titans Adjust Squad Ahead of Playoffs
This will mark Kusal Mendis's first stint in the IPL. The 30-year-old recently featured in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) for Quetta Gladiators, scoring 143 runs at a strike rate exceeding 168. He brings considerable T20 experience, having amassed over 4,700 runs in the format with two centuries. His arrival comes as Gujarat Titans, with 16 points from 11 games, are just one win away from securing their playoff qualification. Under the recently revised IPL 2025 player replacement rules, which allow for temporary signings due to various unavailability reasons, Mendis, if signed now, would not be eligible for retention by the Gujarat Titans for the subsequent season.
Gujarat Titans are making a strategic move to ensure squad depth and specialist cover for the vital wicketkeeper-batsman role ahead of the IPL 2025 playoffs. The reported signing of Kusal Mendis addresses the significant absence of the in-form Jos Buttler, reflecting the franchise's proactive approach as they aim to contend for the title.
Image Source: Cricket Addictor Hindi
