In a major blow to Quetta Gladiators’ plans for the resumption of PSL X, Sri Lankan batter Kusal Mendis will not be returning to Pakistan. According to confirmed reports, Mendis has accepted an offer from Gujarat Titans to join the Indian Premier League (IPL) side ahead of the playoffs.
This development marks another setback for the Gladiators, who had hoped to retain key overseas talent for the final stretch of PSL 2025 after securing their place in the playoffs. With the tournament resuming after a brief delay, Mendis’ departure is symbolic of the larger battle PSL franchises are facing.
Kusal Mendis featured for Quetta Gladiators in eight matches this season, scoring 143 runs in five innings in his debut PSL campaign. According to sources, Gujarat approached Mendis after Jos Buttler dropped out due to England commitments.
While the PCB had attempted to secure continuity with returning overseas players, Mendis is just the latest in a list of international names opting to skip the PSL’s concluding phase. Mitchell Owen of Peshawar Zalmi also chose to play the IPL after both leagues restarted simultaneously.
The Gladiators, however, are primed to deal with his absence after confirmation that Rilee Rossouw and Finn Allen will be returning to the team. With Haseebullah likely to take Kusal Mendis’ place, Quetta appears ready to mount their charge towards the PSL title.
Kusal Mendis’ decision to skip the rest of PSL X and join Gujarat Titans in the IPL dents Quetta Gladiators’ chances but does not diminish them entirely. With the business end of the tournament approaching, the Gladiators do not have time to worry about absences and must focus on adding their second PSL crown.
Prosports.pk brings you the latest updates from the world of PSL! Stay updated with the latest PSL X points table, PSL X Squads, PSL X Schedule, PSL Live Score & Much more!
