The IPL 2023 began in Ahmedabad on 31st March 2023 with Chennai Super Kings battling it out against defending champions Gujarat Titans. The event featured an opening ceremony with Rashmika Mandanna and Arijit Singh before the focus shifted to cricket. While all teams have strong squads, several will miss key players at the start of the tournament for various reasons. Here are five such players who will be absent from the beginning of IPL 2023.
1. Quinton de Kock
Quinton de Kock, a member of Lucknow Supergiants led by KL Rahul, will be absent from the start of IPL 2023 as he will be playing for the South African team in the ODIs against the Dutch. De Kock was a key player for LSG last year and his absence will be felt by the franchise as they attempt to make another playoff run.
2. Kagiso Rabada
Kagiso Rabada, the 9.25 crore signing for Punjab Kings, will miss the team’s opening game against Kolkata Knight Riders as he is part of the ODI series between South Africa and the Netherlands. This absence will be felt by Punjab Kings, who are aiming to end their trophy drought.
3. Aiden Markram
Sunrisers Hyderabad will be without their captain, Aiden Markram, as he is part of South Africa’s squad playing against the Netherlands. This absence will lead to veteran bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar potentially taking over the captaincy duties for SRH.
4. David Miller
David Miller was a standout player for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2022, helping them win the championship with his consistent performances. However, the defending champions will be without Miller for their first game against CSK as he is currently on national duty. He is part of the South African squad set to play against the Netherlands in an ODI series, which is a significant loss for GT.
5. Josh Hazlewood
Josh Hazlewood will miss the early stages of IPL 2023 due to an Achilles injury that has kept him out of action for some time. As he is a vital player for Australia’s upcoming World Test Championship Final and Ashes campaigns, Cricket Australia is taking an active role in his treatment.
