Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue Reportedly Turn Down Late IPL Replacement Offers

Overview

• Reports in The Telegraph, echoed by NDTV and other outlets, say the England pair declined short‑notice IPL deals as teams look for cover for injured players.
• Both went unsold at December’s mini auction and are in the Registered Available Player Pool that franchises tap for injury replacements.
• Smith is reported to want several weeks of rest after a heavy winter, while Tongue is said to be focusing on ECB‑supervised physiotherapy rather than a high‑intensity stint in India.
• England batter Ben Duckett has already withdrawn from his Delhi Capitals contract, saying he wants to be in the best physical and mental shape for the home schedule.
• CricTracker says Smith and Tongue plan to play county cricket when that season begins next week, with 12 other England players still slated to feature in the IPL.