IPL 2018: Ben Stokes Cheers for Rajasthan Royals Ahead of Eliminator

Returning following a two-year suspension, Rajasthan Royals (RR) have had to put in the hard yards to qualify for the playoffs. Now, the side is without the likes of Ben Stokes and in-form batsman Jos Buttler. Their mentor Shane Warne is also away from the camp.

The Royals will meet Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Wednesday (May 23) at the Eden Gardens. A knock-out contest means both the sides will look to make it to the qualifier second against Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Opener Rahul Tripathi’s 80 at the top of the innings against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) propelled them to a strong position.

The onus will be on skipper Ajikya Rahane and Sanju Samson to add vital runs to the cause while the bowlers will look to continue their good show.

Stokes meanwhile voiced his support for the Royals on micro photo-blogging website Instagram. He has shared a few pictures while spending quality time with the Royals and expressed his disappointment at not being at his best in the field.

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A post shared by Ben Stokes (@stokesy)

Ben Stokes cheers up Royals:

On returning to England, Stokes had shared a post with the caption-

“Had a great time with Rajasthan Royals. What a bunch of amazing people this franchise has. ‘Individually very disappointing but gave everything I had to give just wasn’t meant to be, hope we can get across the line tonight and make it through to the play-offs. ‘Would love to see these boys lifting the trophy at the end of the season as all the hard work put in by everyone deserves it.”

Buttler too thanked the fans and the franchise for the memorable season.

“A massive thank you to everyone involved in the very special @rajasthanroyals set up! What an amazing few weeks in India with some fantastic memories made on and off the pitch. Such a great changing room to be a part of an incredible family feel the franchise have developed. Have loved my time with everyone and I will be watching on Saturday as we make it through to the playoffs!! #hallabol”. he said.