• Home
  • Who Said What
  • Lives Important Not Pay Checks Ex Mi Star Urges Australian Players To Skip Ipl 2025

"Lives Important, Not Pay Checks" Ex-MI Star Urges Australian Players To Skip IPL 2025

Akshita Patel

Mitchell Johnson warns Aussies players amid IPL resumption [Source: @andhra_cricguy, @cricketcomau/X.com]Mitchell Johnson warns Aussies players amid IPL resumption [Source: @andhra_cricguy, @cricketcomau/X.com]

Former Australian fast bowler Mitchell Johnson has strongly advised Pat Cummins and other Australian cricketers to avoid returning to the IPL 2025 season. His warning comes in the wake of recent military tensions between India and Pakistan, which caused a temporary halt to the tournament.

After border tensions between India and Pakistan escalated, the PBKS vs DC match held on May 8 in Dharamsala was abandoned due to a security threat, and players were evacuated to a safe place.

The tournament was eventually postponed for a week, and foreign players returned to their homeland. While the season is set to resume, Mitchell Johnson wants Australian cricketers to prioritise their safety.

Mitchell Johnson Warns Aussies Against Returning To India

Former Australian speedster Mitchell Johnson, writing for ‘The Nightly,’ said the game of cricket should never come before personal safety. He added that even though the IPL offers big money, it is still just a sport, and life is far more important than a pay check.

"It’s a no from me. Lives and safety are the most important thing, not pay cheques. It’s a personal decision. No one should be coerced or feel pressured into going back, even if the IPL and Pakistan Super League, which has also been halted, push hard for it. Both tournaments should just end now or consider moving, which then becomes a huge financial issue. Mitch Johnson on Australian players' return to IPL," Johnson said.

He pointed out that while Cricket Australia is letting players decide for themselves, the pressure to return can be tough. Some might feel guilty or worry about missing out financially or professionally. But Johnson insists safety must come first.

He also said that players like Mitchell Starc and others need to start preparing for the World Test Championship final, which begins just days after the IPL ends on June 3.

South African Players Delay WTC Final Prep For IPL

While Australian players might be prioritising WTC final preparations, South Africa stays committed to the IPL. In a surprising move, Cricket South Africa has allowed its WTC-bound players to remain in India for the IPL playoffs and final. 

Initially set to return by May 26, CSA’s director of cricket, Enoch Nkwe, confirmed a change after talks with the BCCI. The Proteas squad will now begin WTC final preparations on June 3, aligning with the IPL’s conclusion.