Delhi Capitals (DC) have been dealt a huge blow with fast bowler Kagiso Rabada ruled out of the remaining of the IPL due to a persistent back niggle, the franchise announced on Friday (May 3).
He was rested by DC in their previous league fixture against Chennai Super Kings (DC) after undergoing scans on his back and has been advised to return by Cricket South Africa (CSA), as a precautionary measure ahead of the World Cup, which is scheduled to begin on May 30.
Rabada is the leading wicket-taker so far in the tournament with 25 wickets in 12 games at an average of 14.72 and economy of 7.82.
“It is indeed very hard for me to leave the Delhi Capitals at this stage of the tournament,” said Rabada before his departure to South Africa. “But with the World Cup just a month away, a collective decision has been made for me in this regard.
“It’s been a tremendous season for me with the Delhi Capitals, both on and off the field, and I truly believe that our team can win the trophy.”
🚨 ANNOUNCEMENT 🚨@KagisoRabada25 to miss the rest of our season after being recalled by Cricket SA for precautionary reasons ahead of the World Cup.#ThankYouKagiso #ThisIsNewDelhi #DelhiCapitals pic.twitter.com/eUARj0i2Mv
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) May 3, 2019
Rabada played a major role in the IPL 2019 as Delhi reached the playoffs for the first time since 2012. He was instrumental in the powerplay often stifling the batsmen and was superb in the death overs. With him ruled out, it leaves a huge hole in Delhi’s bowling arsenal.
However, head coach Ricky Ponting is confident despite the setback; Delhi has a team to go all the way and win the title for the first time.
“It’s unfortunate that Rabada is having to leave us at this stage of the tournament. But I have full confidence in our team, and I’m sure each and every member of this unit will step up to the occasion,” he said.
