IPL 2021: Washington Sundar ruled out due to finger injury

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) all-rounder Washington Sundar has been ruled out of the second half of the 2021 edition due to a finger injury. Bengal medium-pacer Akash Deep has been named as his replacement. Akash is currently a net bowler with the franchise, which will certainly make it all the more easier for the player to adapt. Washington accounted for three wickets in six matches at an average of 32.11 in the first half of IPL 2021. He has accounted for 19 dismissals in 32 matches for the Bangalore-based franchise since joining the franchise in 2018.

Akash emerged as the second highest wicket-taker for Bengal with seven dismissals in five matches at an average of 19.28 in the 2021 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. The 24-year old has accounted for 21 wickets at an average of 16.85 in 15 T20s. He has also been a regular for the state side across formats in the last two domestic seasons.

“Washington Sundar has been ruled out of the remainder of #IPL2021 as he hasn’t fully recovered from his finger injury. Akash Deep, a state cricketer from Bengal who until now was a net bowler with RCB, has been named as Washi’s replacement,” read a statement from RCB.

“This move reiterates the focus RCB has on grooming and nurturing young players as we continue to develop exceptional talent and create a pathway for youngsters to find their way into IPL and Indian Cricket. Wishing you a speedy recovery and hope to see you in the Red and Gold very very soon, Washi!,” it added.

Recent addition of English fast-bowler George Garton

RCB recently signed English pacer George Garton as a replacement for Australian bowler Kane Richardson for the remainder of IPL 2021. The left-arm quick has featured in 38 T20s and has taken 44 wickets with a bowling average of 20.06. As a batsman, Garton has a batting average of 20.77 in the T20s, with a strike rate of 124.66. This will be the English cricketer’s first season in the cash-rich league, with the addition marking RCB’s fourth replacement.

The Bangalore-based franchise had earlier announced four major changes to their squad for the second half of the 2021 season. The edition will resume in the UAE, having been conducted in India previously. The first development is with regard to the role of franchise head coach. Simon Katich has stepped down from the position due to personal reasons. Mike Hesson will step in and discharge the duties of Head Coach for this season. He will continue to perform his responsibilities in the existing role of Director of Cricket Operations.

Sri Lankan leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga has replaced Australia’s Adam Zampa, marking the first major update with regard to the squad build-up. Tim David from Australia has been included in the setup as a replacement for New Zealand’s Finn Allen. The third move sees Sri Lanka’s Dushmantha Chameera replacing Daniel Sams of Australia.

It will be interesting to see how RCB cope with the absence of Sundar, who can be a game-changer.