Faf du Plessis and Glenn Maxwell (Source:@Godsplanbabyy,x.com)
As the third edition of Major League Cricket (MLC) 2025 heads into the playoffs, anticipation is at its peak. Four franchises- Washington Freedom, Texas Super Kings, San Francisco Unicorns, and MI New York, remain in the hunt for the coveted title. While the teams have showcased collective brilliance, several IPL stars have emerged as key players to watch during the playoffs. Here are five IPL star who could shape the outcome of MLC 2025.
1. Nicholas Pooran (MI New York)
Nicholas Pooran has been in decent form for MI New York in MLC 2025. The star player has made 286 runs and is second-highest run-getter this season for MI New York. Since his international retirement earlier in 2025, Pooran has focused entirely on franchise cricket- and it’s showing.
Known for his explosive hitting, he remains one of the most dangerous finishers in T20 cricket, and a similar performance will be expected from him in the MLC playoffs.
In IPL 2025, Pooran played under Rishabh Pant for LSG and was a crucial player in the middle order. Now, his experience and aggressive intent could prove vital as MI New York prepares for their eliminator clash.
2.Faf du Plessis (Texas Super Kings)
Faf du Plessis continues to age like fine wine. Currently the top scorer in MLC 2025, the Texas Super Kings skipper has piled on 409 runs at a blazing strike rate of 175.53. His standout performance includes a stunning century against the San Francisco Unicorns.
With form and fitness on his side, he remains a pillar for the Texas Super Kings as they eye their first MLC title.
3. Jake Fraser-McGurk (San Francisco Unicorns)
Jake Fraser-McGurk had a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign after being bought for a whopping ₹9 crore by Delhi Capitals. However, he has roared back to life in the MLC 2025.
The dynamic Australian opener has scored 271 runs at a strike rate of 174.83 for the Unicorns, including a thunderous 88 off 38 balls against the LA Knight Riders. With playoff pressure looming, Fraser-McGurk’s rediscovered form makes him a crucial player for San Francisco in MLC playoffs.
4. Noor Ahmad (Texas Super Kings)
Noor Ahmad, the young left-arm wrist-spinner from Afghanistan, has emerged as a vital bowler for Texas Super Kings. With 14 wickets in 10 games and an economy of 8.13, he’s been crucial in the middle overs.
Noor was also a regular for CSK in the IPL, where his clever variations often turned matches. His performance in the MLC playoffs will be closely watched as Texas look to build on their best season yet.
5. Glenn Maxwell (Washington Freedom)
Glenn Maxwell may have had a muted IPL 2025 season with Punjab Kings, playing just seven matches and struggling for runs, but the Australian all-rounder is finding form in the MLC at the perfect time.
He has taken 9 wickets at an average of 15.3 and an economy rate of 7.6 in this edition. His best bowling performance 3/29 against MI New York helped Washington Freedom clinch a top-two spot. With the bat, he has been equally effective, scoring 237 runs at a strike rate of 185.15. So, with this form and experience, there is no doubt that Glenn Maxwell will be a must-watch player for Washington Freedom in the MLC 2025 playoffs.