IPL 2019: Dale Steyn Ruled Out Of Rest Of The Season

In what could be termed as a big and a very unfortunate blow for Royal Challengers Bangalore, their fast-bowler Dale Steyn has been ruled out of the remainder of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). The South Africa star had joined the Royal Challengers midway through the season to replace injured Nathan Coulter-Nile. He was making his first appearance in IPL since 2016.

The right-arm pacer made an immediate impact and struck in his very first over of IPL by removing Kolkata Knight Riders’ opener, Chris Lynn. In the high-scoring game, he helped Royal Challengers beat the Knight Riders by 10 runs. In the following game against Chennai Super Kings, he did even well by removing Shane Watson (5) and Suresh Raina (0) on successive deliveries of the very first over to help his team register a thrilling 1-run victory.

However, Steyn missed Royal Challengers’ game against Kings XI Punjab on Wednesday. At the toss, skipper Virat Kohli had said that the Proteas star only had a niggle, thus dismissing any chances of serious injury.

“Last game also we lost the toss but we won. Looking for a solid performance tonight. No team wants to lose six games in a row. We aren’t thinking of play-offs. We are thinking of playing fearless cricket. Proud of the spirit the guys are playing with. Two changes for us. Steyn has a niggle, so Southee comes in. Negi sits out, Washington Sundar comes in,” Kohli had said .

However, Dale Steyn has now been ruled out of the remainder of the competition. According to report in Cricbuzz, Steyn is out of the IPL due to an inflammation in his shoulder. With the World Cup not very far ahead, Steyn perhaps did not want to take any chances and decided to take rest.

“Dale Steyn has been prescribed with ample rest due to inflammation in his shoulder. On account of state of his health, Dale will not be available to take part further in the ongoing season of IPL.

“His presence has helped the team immensely and we are very thankful for the inspiration and passion that he brought to the squad. The team will deeply miss his energy and presence around. We wish him a speedy recovery and all the luck for all future endeavours,” said the franchise in a statement released on Thursday.

It will be a massive blow for the Royal Challengers who are looking like a different side after the arrival of the Steyn. After losing their opening six games, the Royal Challengers have won their last three games to keep their playoffs alive. The Royal Challengers cannot seek a replacement for the pacer as more than half the season has gone.