RCB's IPL-9 campaign hit by injuries to Starc and Badree
THE ROYAL CHALLENGERS BANGALORE have been dealt with a severe blow ahead of the upcoming IPL season after their leading paceman Mitchell Starc was ruled out of the tournament, and there was also doubt over the availability of West Indies spinner Samuel Badree.
Starc is currently undergoing a rehab post his ankle surgery. His presence will be sorely missed by the RCB as he bagged 20 scalps in 12 matches last season.
Australia, who are touring the Caribbean in June for a tri-series, involving hosts West Indies and South Africa, would like their premier fast bowler to rest out the IPL to be in shape for the tour.
Another concern for the RCB is the injury to Badree, who hurt his shoulder in the World T20 final on Sunday against Engand in an attempt to catch Liam Plunkett. The spinner has flown back home to the West Indies and is expected to join the squad before the start of the tournament.
The RCB camp is already underway at the Chinnaswamy stadium without the likes of Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Chris Gayle, who are expected to join the squad by Thursday.
The RCB play their opening game of the season against the Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 12.
