Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) fast bowler Spencer Johnson is not expected to return for the remainder of IPL 2025, even if the tournament resumes in the coming weeks. The Australian pacer has been sidelined with a back injury and has not featured in any match since April, according to a report by Daniel Cherny, chief cricket writer at Code Sports Australia.
Johnson, who was picked by KKR in the IPL 2025 mega auction, struggled to make an impact this season. He played just four matches, taking only one wicket while conceding runs at a costly economy rate of 11.73. Following the suspension of the league on May 9 due to geopolitical tensions, many overseas players, including Johnson, returned to their home countries. Sources indicate he is unlikely to return, even if the league resumes shortly.
Cherny confirmed the development in a post on X (formerly Twitter): “Spencer Johnson is unlikely to return to the IPL if it resumes in the next week or so. The KKR paceman has been dealing with a back injury and hasn’t played since last month.”
KKR’s Playoff Hopes Hang by a Thread
The defending champions KKR have had a turbulent campaign, winning only five out of their 12 matches so far. With six losses and just 11 points, they currently sit sixth in the standings. Even if they win their final two league matches scheduled against SunRisers Hyderabad on May 10 and Royal Challengers Bengaluru on May 17 they would end with 15 points, leaving their playoff chances slim and dependent on other results.
KKR’s last completed match was a loss to Chennai Super Kings on May 7, just two days before the tournament was suspended. The team had started the season with a seven-wicket defeat against RCB and has struggled to find consistent form since.
16 Matches Still to Be Played; BCCI Weighs Options
The IPL 2025 was paused after 57 full matches, with the 58th match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals halted at 10.1 overs due to escalating border tensions. The BCCI has since been evaluating options to resume the tournament between May 16 and May 30, following a ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan.
A total of 16 matches remain, including 12 league fixtures and four playoff games. The BCCI is considering shifting the remaining games to cities like Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bengaluru, with Hyderabad initially slated to host Qualifier 1 and the Eliminator, and Kolkata designated for Qualifier 2 and the Final. However, Ahmedabad is now under consideration as a backup venue for the final.
The fate of the season will depend on the sustained stability of the current situation, with franchises awaiting further communication from the board.
