Ater a brief two-match stint, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) fast bowler Dale Steyn was on Thursday ruled out of their remaining matches of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) owing to an inflammation in his shoulder.
The South African speedster, who had recently joined RCB as an replacement for injured Nathan Coulter-Nile, was forced to sit out of the match against Kings XI Punjab on Wednesday with what captain Virat Kohli called a “niggle” at the toss, but it has now been reported that the bowler cannot take any more part in the tournament.
Steyn has returned to South Africa and will be addressed by a shoulder specialist as the Proteas team management aims to get him fit for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 slated to begin from May 30.
“Dale felt discomfort after playing his second match at the tournament. Upon assessment and subsequent investigations, a flare-up of his right shoulder was confirmed. With the World Cup around the corner, it is our priority to get him back to full fitness before the squad departs on May 19”.
“He will consult with a shoulder specialist upon his return and a recovery plan will be put in place,” South Africa team manager Dr. Mohammed Moosajee was quoted as saying on Steyn’s injury.
Like many others, RCB skipper Virat Kohli also prayed for a speedy recovery for his teammate. Taking to his Twitter handle, the Indian talisman wrote, “Speedy Recovery mate! You’re a champion on and off the field.”
Speedy Recovery mate! You're a champion on and off the field. 😎 pic.twitter.com/yQLjFHxJrU
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) April 26, 2019
Steyn bowled brilliantly in the two matches he was the part of RCB’s playing XI. He bagged the prized wicket of KKR power-hitter Chris Lynn and bowled with venom. In the match against Chennai Super Kings, he bagged the wickets of Shane Watson and Suresh Raina off consecutive deliveries. Steyn’s delivery to Raina is one of the best deliveries of the ongoing tournament.
