The 2020 IPL tournament is ready to kickoff this September 19th, and we can’t wait to get some good ol’ cricket back into our lives.

But this year, a few key players will be missing from action. Here are the top 5 dropouts and their replacements of the season:

Lasith Malinga

After becoming the lead wicket-taker for the Mumbai Indians, the Sri Lankan superstar bowler will not be part of this year’s squad. Malinga stated he wanted to stay home in Sri Lanka, spend time with his family and look after his sick father.

REPLACEMENT: Mumbai Indians will replace Lasith Malinga with James Pattinson.

Kane Richardson

Australia’s Kane Richardson decided to withdraw his name from the 2020 IPL tournament since he didn’t want to miss the birth of his first child.

REPLACEMENT: Royal Challengers Bangalore will replace Kane Richardson with Adam Zampa.

Jason Roy

England’s Jason Roy sustained an injury during the recently concluded series against Pakistan. Hence, Roy won’t be part of the Delhi Captials’ 2020 squad.

REPLACEMENT: Delhi Capitals will replace Jason Roy with Daniel Sams.

Chris Woakes

England’s Chris Woakes also stated the same reason as Kane Richardson. Woakes’ wife is currently pregnant, and he preferred staying his her and skip the season.

REPLACEMENT: Delhi Capitals will replace Chris Woakes with Anrich Nortje.

Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh

Chennai Super Kings’ two heavy firepowers won’t be playing this season. Raina mentioned he will be opting out due to personal reasons. His uncle and nephew were murdered in their homes, so it is natural for Raina to take time off this year. But CSK claimed he was left out because of his prima dona behaviour.

Singh, also stated personal reasons for his absence. “I will not be playing IPL this year due to personal reasons. These are difficult times and I would expect some privacy as I spend time with my family. CSK management has been extremely supportive and I wish them a great IPL Stay safe and Jai Hind,” Harbhajan tweeted.

REPLACEMENT: CSK have still not named a replacement for Harbhajan Singh, but some news reports claim that they are trying to work things out with Suresh Raina to get him back, so a replacement won’t be needed.