South Africa players [Source: AFP]The cricket season is heating up as both the Indian Premier League and the Pakistan Super League are set to begin almost at the same time. The IPL 2026 will start on March 28, while the PSL 2026 begins on March 26. As these dates come closer, several overseas players who were initially part of the PSL have decided to step away and shift their focus to the IPL.In recent years, a clear trend has emerged. International players often prefer the IPL over the PSL. This pattern continues as both leagues overlap in their schedules. The IPL offers higher financial rewards, along with greater global exposure. As a result, many players are choosing to join the IPL, even when they already have contracts with PSL teams.Ottniel Baartman joins the listThe latest name added to this trend is South African fast bowler Ottniel Baartman. Reports suggest that he has withdrawn from the PSL 2026 season. Earlier, he had signed a contract worth PKR 1.1 crore to play for Hyderabad Kingsmen. Now, he is expected to join an IPL team as a replacement player.It is important to note that Ottniel Baartman is not alone in making this decision. He follows other players such as Spencer Johnson and Blessing Muzarabani, who have also stepped away from PSL commitments. This growing list clearly shows how players are weighing their options carefully during overlapping league schedules.Also Read: CSK Star Out, ENG Skipper Leaves And Stirling Steps Down- March 19 Cricket HighlightsOttniel Baartman likely to join IPL 2026According to reports, Baartman may soon join CSK as a replacement for Nathan Ellis. Ellis has been ruled out of IPL 2026, which has created a gap in the team’s bowling lineup. As a result, Baartman is seen as a strong option to fill that role.Interestingly, Baartman went unsold in the IPL 2025 auction. Notably, he had previously set a base price of INR 75 lakhs during the 2025 auction. Even so, this new opportunity could mark his first appearance in the IPL. His T20 record adds to his appeal, with 160 wickets in 112 innings and an economy rate of 7.49.Ottniel Baartman's strong performance in SA20 League 2025–26At the same time, he also performed well in the SA20 League 2025–26. He picked up 20 wickets in just 9 innings, while his economy rate was 9.13. This performance has added to his growing reputation as a reliable fast bowler.This situation is not new. In 2025, South African all-rounder Corbin Bosch made headlines after leaving PSL despite being picked by Peshawar Zalmi. At that time, he received an opportunity to join Mumbai Indians as a replacement for Lizaad Williams. He chose to move to India, which led to a strong reaction from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Consequently, he faced a one-year ban from the PSL.At present, Baartman is part of the South Africa squad touring New Zealand in 2026.Also Read: Mitchell Starc Blocked From Joining Delhi Capitals For IPL 2026 By Cricket Australia, BCCI Action Coming?
