RCB Mainstay Rajat Patidar Ruled Out Of IPL 2023

image-lg23znodRajat Patidar [Source: Twitter]

In an unfortunate turn of events, stylish batter Rajat Patidar has been ruled out of the IPL 2023 due to an Achilles Heel injury. Earlier, the swashbuckling right-handed batter was deemed doubtful for the initial half of the tournament after sustaining the aforementioned injury just before joining the RCB camp. It was reported that he would rest for three weeks, following which he could participate in the showpiece event. 

However, as things stand, the 29-year-old doesn't seem to recover in time, as a result of which he has been sidelined from the entire event. Meanwhile, the RCB management is yet to announce his replacement. 

Patidar's injury comes as a significant blow to RCB, who are determined to break their 15-year-long title drought this season. 

The dynamic batter established himself as a mainstay in RCB's star-studded lineup, amassing 333 runs, including a sensational hundred in the all-important eliminator, at an average of 55.50 and a blistering strike rate of 152.75. 

In his absence, the men in red will likely go with one between Anuj Rawat, Suyash Prabhudessai and Mahipal Lomror as their number three for this season. 

Notably, besides Patidar, ace seamers, Josh Hazlewood and Reece Topley, are also doubtful for the remainder of the IPL 2023 due to injury. 

Led by Faf du Plessis, RCB got a dream start to their IPL 2023 campaign, decimating the mighty Mumbai Indians by eight wickets in their first match of the season. Up next, they will take on Kolkata Knight Riders on Thursday.