Big News: Gujarat Titans to bring in Sri Lanka star as Jos Buttler's replacement for IPL 2025 playoffs

Kusal Mendis is set to join Gujarat Titans (GT) as Jos Buttler's replacement for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 playoffs, as per a ESPNCricinfo report. This change comes as Buttler is slated to participate in GT's final three league matches before departing for the UK to join England's national team for their white-ball series against the West Indies, which is scheduled to start from on May 29. Meanwhile, IPL 2025 playoffs will coincide with the West versus England's first ODI as it will start on the same day, May 29.

Mendis, who has previously played for Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), will not be returning to Pakistan for the latter stages of that tournament and will thus be named as temporary replacement for IPL 2025 playoffs.

ESPNcricinfo confirmed that Kusal Mendis will be joining his fellow Sri Lankan player, Dasun Shanaka, in the Gujarat Titans' dugout. Given the limited wicket-keeping alternatives within the squad, with the uncapped Anuj Rawat being the only other option, Mendis is anticipated to directly slot into the GT's playing XI in Jos Buttler's absence.

GT currently hold the top position in the IPL 2025 points table, boasting 16 points from 11 matches, and are just one win away from their playoff qualification. Batting at the crucial No. 3 position this season, Buttler has displayed exceptional form, having amassed 500 runs at an impressive average of 71.43. The experienced English player is expected to participate in the team's remaining three league-stage games before departing for his international duties.

Mendis recently proved his batting prowess in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), where he scored 143 runs for the Quetta Gladiators at a striking rate exceeding 168. Throughout his T20 career, the 30-year-old has accumulated over 4700 runs, including two centuries and 32 half-centuries. Notably, this signing marks Mendis's inaugural stint in the Indian Premier League. However, due to the new replacement regulations, GT will not have the option to retain the Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batter for the subsequent season.