**Delhi Capitals Bolster Squad as IPL 2025 Resumes: Du Plessis and Stubbs Return, Starc and Ferreira Absent**
As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season gears up to resume on May 17, Delhi Capitals (DC) have made significant announcements regarding the availability of their overseas players. The franchise confirmed on Saturday that vice-captain Faf du Plessis and South African power-hitter Tristan Stubbs have rejoined the squad, injecting a much-needed boost to their campaign. However, the team will miss the services of Australian speedster Mitchell Starc and South African all-rounder Donovan Ferreira for the remainder of the tournament.
Currently placed fifth on the IPL 2025 points table with six wins from 11 matches, Delhi Capitals are still very much in contention for a playoff berth. Their last fixture against Punjab Kings was abandoned due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, leaving fans eagerly anticipating their next clash against Gujarat Titans on Sunday at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi.
**Du Plessis and Stubbs: A Welcome Return**
Faf du Plessis, the seasoned Proteas opener and DC’s vice-captain, will be available for the remainder of the IPL season. Known for his leadership and consistency at the top of the order, du Plessis’ presence is expected to stabilize the team’s batting lineup. On the other hand, Tristan Stubbs, the explosive South African batter, will be available only until May 26, as he is set to join the South African squad for the World Test Championship final.
In a statement, the JSW and GMR co-owned franchise expressed their delight at the return of the duo. “Vice-captain Faf du Plessis and teammate Tristan Stubbs have rejoined the team ahead of the resumption of IPL 2025. Their experience and firepower will be crucial as we push for a playoff spot,” the franchise said.
**Starc and Ferreira Exit, Mustafizur Steps In**
While the return of du Plessis and Stubbs is a positive development, Delhi Capitals will have to cope with the absence of two key players. Mitchell Starc and Donovan Ferreira will be unavailable for the remainder of the season. Starc has been selected for Australia’s World Test Championship final squad, while Ferreira has opted out due to personal commitments.
The franchise has shown full support for the players’ decisions. “Delhi Capitals fully respects their decision and extends its support and best wishes for their continued success,” the statement added.
To fill the void left by Jake Fraser-McGurk, who will not return to India due to personal reasons, Delhi Capitals have re-signed Bangladeshi left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman. A familiar face in the DC camp, Mustafizur represented the franchise in the 2022 and 2023 seasons. With 61 wickets in 57 IPL matches at an economy rate of 8.14, the ‘Fizz’ brings a wealth of experience and variety to the bowling attack.
**DC’s Rollercoaster Season So Far**
Delhi Capitals’ journey in IPL 2025 has been a mixed bag. They began the season on a high with four consecutive wins, igniting hopes of a dominant campaign. However, the team faltered in the subsequent matches, losing four of their next six games. Their eleventh match against SunRisers Hyderabad was also washed out, resulting in both teams sharing the points.
The abandoned game against Punjab Kings on May 8 due to political tensions further disrupted their momentum. With only a handful of matches left, the return of du Plessis and Stubbs could be the catalyst DC needs to secure a playoff spot.
**Looking Ahead**
Delhi Capitals’ next match against Gujarat Titans is a must-watch, as it could significantly impact their playoff chances. With du Plessis anchoring the batting and Stubbs providing fireworks in the middle order, DC’s lineup looks formidable. Meanwhile, Mustafizur’s inclusion adds depth to their bowling unit, which will be crucial in the high-pressure matches ahead.
As the IPL 2025 season resumes, all eyes will be on Delhi Capitals to see if they can capitalize on their strengths and make a strong push for the playoffs. With seasoned internationals and emerging talents in their ranks, the franchise has the ingredients for success—if they can deliver when it matters most.