Tensions High Among Overseas Players
Even though a ceasefire has been announced by India and Pakistan, fear still resides among certain foreign cricketers, especially Australians. DC and PBKS players have both raised concerns over their security as political tension has risen along the India-Pakistan border.
IPL 2025 Jake Fraser-McGurk Cancels out of matches
Delhi Capitals were told on Wednesday evening (Australian time) that Jake Fraser-McGurk would not be coming back for the second half of IPL 2025, which is scheduled to restart on May 17. The 22-year-old has been widely regarded as one of the DC’s key members and was understandably ‘disturbed’ by events that took place last week in Dharamshala.
Delhi Capitals have recruited Bangladeshi quick Mustafizur Rahman to plug the gap. Famous for his deceiving cutters and variations, Mustafizur can be a new dimension of bowling that DC is looking into as it aims for a playoff berth.
What Happened in Dharamshala?
The match in Dharamshala halted abruptly after a mere 10.1 overs due to escalating cross-border tensions and alleged drone attacks from Pakistan. It caused massive power outages in Jammu, Udhampur, and Pathankot — areas falling within a 250 km radius of the stadium. Players, the couched staff immediately shifted from that city through a high security party and via Jalandhar by air to Delhi. “TOO CLOSE
FOR COMFORT” COACH DISHES OUT PERSPECTIVE
Shannon Young, the former coach of Fraser-McGurk, as a child and in attendance during the crisis, observed that the cricketer was distraught going into the match itself. “He took it harder than most,” said Young. For someone who still really is just a kid, it got to him. I was actually overwhelmed by it, and I’m 50 years old and I’ve been around the world.”
Young also pointed out his view of distance and safety: “In Australia, we consider 60–80 km as being dangerously close to conflict zones. So for us, that’s not a safe distance at all.”
Other Players Show Hesitation on Returning Too
Fraser-McGurk is not alone. Fielding coach Anton Roux was not sure whether to return, but wrote on Instagram that he was travelling back to India. In the meantime, reports indicate that Mitchell Starc’s comeback is still uncertain. Faf du Plessis and Tristan Stubbs, among other foreign players, are among those whose fate hangs in the balance. PBKS, who have shifted their base to a new home in Jaipur, are yet to confirm the return of their foreign players.
IPL Management Shows Concern
Delhi Capitals have been lauded for their prompt and empathic action.“They were outstanding in their care and support,” Young said. Unfortunately, the psychological scars of those events have created prolonged trepidation among international cricketers.
Closing Thoughts
Matches may be set to resume, but the emotional aftershocks of the fighting have complicated the return of some players from overseas to the tournament. While cricket lovers look ahead to the conclusion of IPL 2025, the broader perspective is that players’ safety and mental welfare can never be compromised, no matter the stage.
