New Delhi: The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) suffered a major setback before the start of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 second phase. The franchise's all-rounder Washington Sundar won't be able to take part in the tournament due to finger injury. RCB decided to add Akash Deep to the team in place of Sundar for the remaining 31 matches of IPL 2021 to be played in UAE. Akash is a medium pacer bowler and plays for Bengal.
"Royal Challengers Bangalore's all-rounder Washington Sundar has been ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2021 due to an impending finger injury," the franchise said in an official statement.
Sundar had suffered the injury before the start of the five-match Test series between India and England. He had sustained a fracture in his finger from Mohammad Siraj's short-pitched delivery during the practice match.
Washington's exit from the second phase of IPL is a big setback for the Virat Kohli-led Bangalore. Sundar had batted remarkably well on the UAE pitches last year and RCB skipper Virat Kohli had used him extensively in the power plays.
Along with the ball, Sundar also has the ability to play some big shots as well. Recently, the Bangalore team added Sri Lankan all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga and fast bowler Dushmant Chamira to their squad as replacements. Hasranga had enjoyed a stellar performance in the T20 series against India.
Many players withdrew their names from this star-studded RCB ahead of IPL-14 Phase 2. Mike Hesson was appointed the team's new coach after Simon Katich stepped down as coach.