New Delhi: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) were dealt with a fresh blow ahead of their Indian Premier League (IPL) opener against Sunrisers Hyderbad after talented batsman Sarfaraz Khan was ruled out of the tournament due to a leg injury.
Speaking to reporters, RCB coach Daniel Vettori confirmed the news saying that the right-hander suffered an injury during the team's last practice session.
"Owing to a leg injury during the final Bangalore based practice match session, Sarfaraz Khan will most likely be unavailable to play as a part of the RCB squad this VIVO IPL and we are evaluating the same with the BCCI.
As per RCB's official website, Sarfaraz was one of the choices that the management were looking upon to partner Chris Gayle in the absence of Virat Kohli.
Vettori concluded by saying, "His absence will be definitely felt on-field and we wish him a speedy recovery."
Kohli and AB de Villiers – two of the most key batsmen of the RCB squad are struggling with injuries as well and are likely to be rested for team's opener against SRH.
While the South African Vettori has been rested for the opening match on a precautionary note to give him a couple of days off to recover from the back injury he sustained in South Africa, Kohli too, is likely to be rested for the opening match after suffering a shoulder injury in the recently concluded Test series against Australia.
Shane Watson, former Australian all-rounder, will be leading the squad in de Villiers, Kohli's absence.
