Star pacer of Gujarat Titans, Kagiso Rabada, has headed back to South Africa after exiting the current IPL 2025 season for personal reasons. The franchise doubled down on the positive nature of his departure, maintaining that while they wish him all the best, his exit will leave an obvious hole in the team’s ability to compete.

Major Setback for Gujarat Titans

Rabada’s departure comes as a massive loss for Gujarat Titans, as he has proven to be the game changer in their bowling line-up. His pace, experience and ability to take wickets have been key to the team’s campaign thus far. In his absence, the franchise will have to reassess their bowling strategy and find an effective replacement.

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The management of Gujarat Titans has backed Rabada,emphasizing that his well-being is the priority. At this stage, no definitive word on whether he will come back in the tournament or be ruled out for the rest of the IPL season. The rest of the team will likely have to scour their own ranks or hit free agency to find a band-aid replacement.

🚨 Kagiso Rabada has left the Gujarat Titans squad and returned home to South Africa for personal seasons

Full story 👉 https://t.co/tirrOoxIGQ #IPL2025 pic.twitter.com/Ws6jtbkay6

— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) April 3, 2025

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Rabada’s return to South Africa fuels speculation about his international commitments. With a packed international schedule coming up, including the 2024 T20 World Cup, it’s unclear whether he will be available for Gujarat Titans for the rest of the season or if his focus will be on national duties.

As IPL 2025 is underway, Gujarat Titans will be tested on how quickly they can adjust without their best fast bowler. Whether Rabada does come back or not, his absence will certainly be felt as the team seeks its next trophy.