Former South Africa captain Faf Du Plessis has decided to not register for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction. The former Delhi Capitals opener announced his decision of pulling out of IPL 2026 auction via social media post, and revealed that he intends to feature in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) next year instead.
Faf Du Plessis opts out of IPL 2026 auction
This is what the Du Plessis' social media post read:
"After 14 seasons in the IPL, I've decided not to put my name into the auction this year. It's a big decision, and one that comes with a lot of gratitude when I look back. 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. India has given me friendships, lessons, and memories that have shaped me as a cricketer and as a person."
"To every coach, teammate, support staff member, and every fan who has backed me over the years-thank you. Your support has meant the world. 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."
Du Plessis picks PSL over IPL
"This year, I've chosen to take on a new challenge and will be playing in the upcoming PSL season.
It's an exciting step for me a chance to experience something new, to grow it as a player, and to embrace a league filled with incredible talent and energy. A new country. A new environment. A new challenge. I'm looking forward to the Pakistan hospitality, See you all soon."
Du Plessis, who has won three IPL titles with CSK, was a consistent presence in the IPL for 14 seasons, with his most recent stint being with Delhi Capitals in 2025. Following what was described as a disastrous season, Capitals had already opted to part ways with the right-handed batter ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction.
Throughout his extensive IPL career, Du Plessis has featured in 154 matches, accumulating a total of 4,773 runs. He achieved this with a solid average of 35.10 and an impressive strike rate of 135.79, with a high score of 96. Over the years, the South African batter has represented several major franchises, including Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Rising Pune Supergiants, Delhi Capitals, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).The experienced batter is particularly remembered for his performance in 2021, where he amassed 633 runs, contributing to Chennai Super Kings' title-winning campaign. Following this, he joined Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2022 and eventually took on the role of franchise captain, leading the team for three seasons. His most successful season with the bat came in 2023 while playing for RCB, a year in which he smashed 730 runs.