Picture Credit: IPL/BCCI
In a massive blow to the Rajasthan Royals, who are looking to win their first IPL trophy after their heroics in the inaugural season, their star all-rounder Ben Stokes was ruled of the entire tournament after sustaining a finger injury in the very first match. Although, it was earlier being said that Stokes will continue to remain with the team, it was later revealed that he would need a surgery, for which he would be flying back to England. Rajasthan, however, did not let Stokes leave without a heartwarming parting gift and gesture.
RR give Stokes a jersey with his father's name who passed away last year
Before his flight to England, Rajasthan gave Stokes a jersey with his late father's name on it. The jersey was handed to the England cricketer by RR captain Sanju Samson. "GERARD STOKES," was spelt at the back of the RR t-shirt. Notably, Stokes' had joined the franchise late last year to attend to his ailing father. Later, his father lost a long battle to cancer in December 2020.
Sidelined for up to 12 weeks
England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed that Stokes has been sidelined for up to 12 weeks owing to a broken finger. The release further stated that the 29-year-old will undergo a surgery at Leeds on Monday.