Kusal Mendis' subtle response when asked about leaving PSL for IPL

Discussions surrounding the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and Indian Premier League (IPL) often dominate social media. During a press conference, a reporter raised a sensitive topic with Sri Lanka's Kusal Mendis, asking if he regretted leaving the PSL midway last season to join the IPL. Mendis, who signed with Peshawar Zalmi for the PSL 2026 season, was asked about his decision, which led to an awkward moment in the press room. The moderator quickly intervened to refocus the conversation.

Mendis had initially played for Quetta Gladiators in the 2025 PSL, featuring in eight matches before withdrawing, citing security concerns. He then travelled to India to replace an injured player in the Gujarat Titans squad for the IPL 2025 playoffs. However, the Gujarat Titans released him before the IPL 2026 auction, and no franchise picked him up for the new season.

In 2026, Mendis returned to the PSL, joining Peshawar Zalmi, and has been in great form, amassing 241 runs in just four matches.

When the reporter asked, "You left the PSL last year to play in the IPL midway through the tournament. This year you weren’t selected do you regret leaving the PSL?" the moderator reminded the reporter to stick to questions about the PSL and the Peshawar Zalmi match. 

Despite the reporter’s insistence that it was related to PSL, Mendis chose not to answer, remaining silent until another reporter had his turn.

As the IPL and PSL overlap in their schedules, overseas players often find themselves having to choose between the two leagues. The IPL’s allure, with its massive financial rewards, high competition, and global recognition, makes it the preferred choice for many. Players, like Mendis, often end up in the PSL when they are overlooked in the IPL auction, and in some cases, players leave the PSL mid-tournament to take up an offer from the IPL.