RCB Speedster Reece Topley Ruled Out of IPL 2023


image-lg59sgohReece Topley dislocated his shoulder against MI [Source: AP]

In a massive setback for Royal Challengers Bangalore, ace pacer Reece Topley has been ruled out of the IPL 2023 due to shoulder injury. RCB batting coach Sanjay Bangar confirmed the news during his conversation with the broadcasters Star Sports. The former Indian cricketer also revealed that Josh Hazlewood would join the squad by the 17th of this month. 

Notably Topley was bought by RCB at INR 1.90 Crores in the IPL 2023 mini-auction conducted in December last year. The English speedster even made his IPL debut against the mighty Mumbai Indians in RCB's first group-stage encounter in Bangalore. 

Opening the bowling, the tall left-arm seamer had a dream start, cleaning up MI's newest recruit Cameron Green for single-digit score. However, after bowling his first spell, Topley dislocated his right shoulder while diving inside the 30-yard circle. He was seen in severe pain and later went off the field. 

After such a devastating injury, it was inevitable that he would be ruled out from the tournament. Now, as he is set to miss the remainder of the tournament, it will be interesting to see who RCB name as his replacement. 

Meanwhile, Topley's fellow countryman David Willey replaced him in RCB's playing XI for their second group-stage fixture against Kolkata Knight Riders. The famed swing bowler had an instant impact in the game, dismantling the KKR top-order with his sensational new-ball spell.

Regarding the game, despite an early collapse, KKR have resurrected their innings remarkably, courtesy of Shardul Thakur's whirlwind knock. 

As of writing the report, KKR are 147 for five in 16 overs, with Thakur and Rinku Singh batting on 47* and 21*, respectively.