Kusal Mendis shares harrowing experience behind PSL 2025 exit and IPL return

In a startling revelation that sheds light on the personal struggles often hidden behind sporting headlines, Sri Lankan cricketer Kusal Mendis has opened up about his abrupt departure from the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025. The wicketkeeper-batter, who opted out of the tournament earlier this month, cited fears stemming from the escalating military tensions between India and Pakistan as the primary reason for his decision.

Mendis, who was representing a PSL franchise at the time, found himself in a terrifying situation as border conflicts intensified. Speaking publicly for the first time about the ordeal, the 29-year-old disclosed that the deteriorating security situation forced him to leave Pakistan in haste, so hastily, in fact, that he couldn’t even retrieve his own cricket kit.

Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Mendis recounted the stressful situation:

“Unfortunately when I had to leave @OfficialPSL suddenly I had to leave my kitbag behind. Tried everything to get it down to join @ipl but nothing worked,” he wrote.

In a heartwarming twist amid the tension, Mendis went on to thank a fellow Sri Lankan citizen, known only as Mr. Wayne, who resides in Pakistan. This unsung hero stepped in to help the cricketer by flying all the way to Colombo with Mendis’ kit bag, ensuring the player could resume professional cricket without disruption.

“When this amazing Sri Lankan Mr. Wayne who is living in Pakistan flew all the way to Colombo to bring my kitbag — amazing human,” Mendis added in his post.

IPL 2025: Kusal Mendis to replace Jos Butller in GT

Following his safe return from Pakistan, Mendis has now been roped in by the Gujarat Titans (GT) franchise as a replacement for English star Jos Buttler. Buttler, currently with the GT squad, is set to leave the tournament on May 26 to join England’s national side for the upcoming white-ball series against the West Indies.

The inclusion of Mendis comes at a crucial juncture for the Titans. With eight wins and three losses, GT are in strong contention for the IPL 2025 playoffs. They have just sealed their spot in the playoffs after a thumping 10-wicket win against Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitely Stadium in New Delhi.