Picture Credit: IPL/BCCI
Rajasthan Royals have been struck with a major blow in their IPL 2021 campaign as star all-rounder Ben Stokes has been reportedly ruled out of the ongoing season due to a suspected broken hand. The 29-year-old notably suffered the injury during Rajasthan's opening contest against Punjab Kings on Monday.
The injury took place when Stokes dived forward to take a stunning catch to dismiss Chris Gayle. However, the all-rounder immediately felt discomfort in his left hand which eventually turned out to quite serious later on.
Check out how Stokes got injured:
The left-handed batsman did look slightly uncomfortable when he came out to bat in the next innings. Stokes was dismissed after trying to play a pull shot off a pacy delivery from Mohammed Shami but scooped it up straight in the air. KL Rahul completed the catch as the RR player was dismissed on a 3-ball duck which would turn out to be his only and last innings in this season of the tournament.
Who will replace Stokes?
It is quite difficult to find a replacement for one of the best all-rounders in the world right now. However, the franchise might look at few other players available to fill in the huge void left in the team in absence of Stokes. Talking about the immediate response, Rajasthan might move back Jos Buttler at top of the order with either Liam Livingstone or David Miller taking that spot in the middle-order.
After losing their opening encounter, Rajasthan Royals will play their next match on April 15 against Delhi Capitals.