In a big blow to the Delhi Capitals, the leading wicket- taker of season 12 South African pacer Kagiso Rabada was ruled of the rest of the IPL after CSA decided to call the pacer back as a precautionary measure ahead of the World Cup. Rabada has a slight back injury.
Rabada had missed Delhi Capitals’ last match against Chennai Super Kings due to stiff back and his unavailability is a severe blow to Delhi Capitals, who are striving to win their maiden IPL title.
According to a statement from the Delhi Capitals, Rabada, the current Purple Cap holder, has been advised to return home by CSA.
“It is indeed very hard for me to leave the Delhi Capitals at this stage of the tournament,” said the 23-year-old Rabada, who took 25 wickets from 12 matches that he played this season.
It’s hard for me to leave the Delhi Capitals at this stage of the tournament. But with the World Cup just a month away, a collective decision has been made for me in this regard,” Rabada said in a statement.
“It’s been a tremendous season for me with Delhi Capitals, both on and off the field, and I truly believe that our team can win the trophy,” Rabada added.
Delhi Capitals’ head coach Ricky Ponting termed the development as “unfortunate”.
“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,” Ponting said.
Rabada has played a pivotal role in Delhi Capitals’ march to the first Play-offs after a gap of seven years.
South Africa play their first match against England in the World Cup on May 30.
