Kevin Pietersen blasts ECB over Stokes’ IPL-10 exit 

RISING PUNE SUPERGIANT is all set to play Mumbai Indians at Wankhede, in the play-off of IPL-10. 

The Steve Smith-led side will enter the field without the services of star all-rounder Ben Stokes. The 25-year-old, who picked 12 wickets and scored 316-runs in 12 matches, was recently recalled to England’s ODI squad. Stokes had played an instrumental role in Pune’s run to finish second in the league stage.

Stokes, who was acquired for a massive Rs 14.5 crores in IPL 2017 player auction, earned two Man of the Match awards in 12 games for RPS. He has joined the national side that is training in Spain. The English side is currently preparing for South Africa series, which doesn’t begin until May 24. 

And his departure has irked former England skipper and current IPL commentator Kevin Pietersen. KP blasted the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for not allowing the flamboyant all-rounder to continue his stint with RPS. As reported by Sky Sports, Pietersen said, 

"I think it's pathetic. An absolute shambles. Stokes should be playing in the semi-final and the final. The last week of the IPL is a huge occasion. What are they going to Spain for? To field a couple of balls? He should be playing in the IPL. Just speak to him, speak to Jos Buttler, they'll talk about how much it has helped their development being out there."

Meanwhile, RPS skipper Steve Smith said other players would have to step up Stokes's absence.

"We have a couple of options (to replace) Stokes. He has been magnificent and will be a big loss. Hopefully, the other guys will stand up for us."

Get the latest in the world of Sports, Teams, and Players! Free Delivery to your Inbox.