Former Royal Challengers Bangalore captain Faf Du Plessis has confirmed he will not be entering the upcoming IPL auction, opting instead to take a break from the league after 14 seasons. Du Plessis, who was recently released by the Delhi Capitals, announced his decision, citing a desire to pursue a new challenge in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) for the 2026 season.
The veteran South African opener reflected on his long and successful tenure in the IPL, which included leading RCB to successive knockout appearances and achieving consistent batting performances. He expressed deep gratitude for the friendships and memories made in India, assuring fans that this is not a permanent goodbye from the league.
Du Plessis's absence from the auction pool is a significant development, as he remains a highly sought-after opener and leader. His move to the PSL is driven by a desire to experience a new environment and embrace a different T20 challenge, highlighting the competitive scheduling conflict between the IPL and PSL.

Leading fifty makers scorers in IPL Career (batting specialists only: batters/all-rounders/wicketkeepers)
| Rank | Player | Team | fifty-makers |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | RCB | 63 fifties | |
| #2 |
See what cricket fans are saying about this in our Facebook community.

“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.”
“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.”
| MI |
| 47 fifties |
| #3 | DC | 40 fifties |
| #4 | DC | 39 fifties |
| #5 | KKR | 33 fifties |