Last Updated on 4 years by Charbel Coorey

Royals’ statement on Ben Stokes: All-rounder ruled out of IPL | Rajasthan Royals and England all-rounder Ben Stokes has been ruled out of IPL 2021 with finger injury

In a massive blow to Rajasthan Royals’ playoff and title hopes, all-rounder Ben Stokes has been ruled out of IPL 2021 due to a finger injury. The injury, confirmed to be a broken finger, occurred whilst fielding during the epic match between the Royals and Punjab Kings.

Stokes now joins fellow England teammate Jofra Archer on the sidelines, with the latter still recovering from surgery on his hand. Archer is also managing an elbow concern, which now leaves the Royals in a difficult predicament as two of their overseas stars are struck down with injury.

However, Stokes will be staying with the squad for the IPL. According to the Royals, Stokes would like to stay with the Royals group to provide his valued support and input off the field throughout the season.

The Royals have made an official statement following Stokes’ injury: “Rajasthan Royals all-rounder Ben Stokes injured a finger on his left hand while fielding during the team’s match against Punjab Kings on 12 April 2021 in Mumbai. Subsequent investigations revealed that he sustained a broken finger, which will unfortunately rule him out of the remainder of the Indian Premier League 2021 season,” the statement reads.

“Everyone at Rajasthan Royals absolutely admires Ben for being such a huge asset and a valuable member of the Royals family, both on and off the field, and wishes him a speedy recovery. We are delighted that Ben would like to stay with the group to provide his valued support and inputs off the field. In the meantime, we will be reviewing potential replacement options for the remainder of the season.”

Stokes’ all-round ability, particularly with him now opening the batting, makes him a big loss for the Royals. Other overseas batting options include Liam Livingstone and David Miller, both of whom have strong T20 pedigree.

The Royals will be hoping either of Livingstone and Miller can make a strong impact right away after their first-up defeat.