Published: Apr 23, 2016, 10:59 PM (IST)
Edited: Apr 23, 2016, 11:07 PM (IST)
MS Dhoni-led Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS) suffered a massive blow on Saturday when their star batsman Kevin Pietersen was ruled out of the ongoing ninth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2016 tournament. Pietersen suffered an injury in his right calf during their IPL 2016 match against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), and his injury was described as a ‘blessing in disguise’ by Dhoni, who hinted on Friday that with Pietersen sidelined, Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS) have a chance to play all-rounders such as Albie Morkel or Mitchell Marsh in place of a proper batsman in Pietersen. Unfortunately, little did Dhoni know that he will lose one of his prime batsman heading into a very important stage in IPL 9. ALSO READ: Kevin Pietersen likely to miss RPS matches for fortnight; opens avenues for Mitchell Marsh or Albie Morkel
Dhoni said on Friday night, “We’re playing with six bowlers, yet our death bowling isn’t great. Maybe we can look to bring in Albie Morkel or Mitch Marsh in the next game. With the kind of players we’ve got, it has always been difficult to drop someone. We need to strengthen our bowling line a bit.” ALSO READ: Kevin Pietersen retired hurt, Steven Smith run out against RCB in IPL 2016
On Friday night, Pietersen, who went for a single suddenly backed out, as he pulled his calf apparently, and stayed on the ground for a while, before being escorted out by the physio. Pietersen announced the development on his Instagram page, beginning with words ‘over and out’.
He wrote, “Over & out, India! Injuries are all part of the job! Horrible tear in my calf! Sad to be leaving a really great bunch of boys but looking forward to being back with my family! London bound for a summer off! Vacation till November! Bye for now! Lots of love, KP”
