Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Delhi Capitals have suffered a massive blow even before the start of the tournament. Star England all-rounder Chris Woakes, who was roped in by the franchise for Rs 1.5 crores during the auction has pulled out of the competition to stay fresh for England’s home summer.
England are currently preparing for the two Tests against Sri Lanka, and will later play six Test across three months at home against West Indies and Pakistan starting from June 4, making for a gruelling schedule. Chris Woakes is an integral member of England’s red-ball cricket and with IPL 2020 coming to an end of May 24, it will take a heavy toll on the cricketer’s body.
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As a result, Woakes has decided to remain fresh for his international assignments and has informed the franchise of his decision according to the PA news agency. This will be a massive setback considering that star fast bowlers Ishant Sharma and Kagiso Rabada are running against time to be fit before the start of the cash-rich league.
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While Rabada is down with a groin injury which he sustained during the T20Is against Australi, Ishant aggravated his injury during the Test series against New Zealand. The team management received severe criticism for hurrying with Ishant while he was returning from an ankle injury he suffered during a Ranji Trophy game.
Although Chris Woakes doesn’t boast a staggering record in the IPL having played for Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kolkata Knight Riders previously, Delhi Capitals will miss his experience in the upcoming event. Meanwhile, the Capitals will have a choice to name a replacement for the Englishmen before the start of the IPL on March 29.
