IPL 2020: Jos Buttler to miss IPL opener against CSK

Rajasthan Royals kick off their campaign against Chennai Super Kings on September 22, Tuesday at Sharjah Cricket Stadium. Ahead of their new season, they were a dealt a big blow to their batting department as their talismanic player Jos Buttler will miss the first match for the IPL 2020.

The wicketkeeper-batsman on Sunday confirmed the news that he won’t take part in the team’s opener against CSK. Buttler will be put in isolation with his family in the United Arab Emirates. Buttler’s absence leaves a void in the Royals’ camp.

The England international has been a vital cog for Rajasthan Royals not just in terms of the bat but in terms of keeping the wickets as well. Buttler has scored as many as 311 runs in the last season. He was also a key player in the 2018 season where he scored 548 runs.

New opening combination for Rajasthan Royals in IPL opener

With Buttler not part of the team’s plans for the opener, the Royals will have to pick an opening combination from Yashasvi Jaiswal, Robin Uthappa and Manan Vohra.

“I’m unfortunately going to miss the first match for Rajasthan because I’m going to be doing my quarantine period. I’m here with my family, it’s great that the Royals have allowed me to have my family over, so it will be a huge help,” Buttler said in a video posted by Rajasthan Royals on Instagram.

Ben Stokes is also not part of the team’s plans for now. Jos Buttler also talked about the English all-rounder who is still in New Zealand. Ben Stokes left for Christchurch previously this summer in order be with his father who is suffering from brain cancer.

“Hopefully,” England wicket-keeper batsman said when asked if Ben Stokes will play the IPL. “Ben is taking some family time at the moment. Everyone’s wishes are with him and everyone’s thoughts are with him. Hopefully, we’ll have him here in pink at some point.”