Watch: Faf du Plessis blames IPL for ruining their World Cup squad
South African captain Faf du Plessis blamed the Indian Premier League for ruining his World Cup squad. Faf in a pre-match press conference said that Dale was bowling very well lead up to the World Cup. He performed so well and if he didn’t get picked up in the IPL who knows where Dale would have been right now.
Dale Steyn injured his shoulder during his small stint at the Indian Premier League playing for Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore. Virat Kohli also backed Dale and said, “I'm really feeling bad for Dale because he looked really happy. He was bowling really well and then suddenly, we find out that he's not going to be able to continue."
Kagiso Rabada was also injured in the Indian Premier League while representing Delhi Capitals and did not play the semi-finals for them as he was called back by South Africa cricket board.
South Africa is facing a really tough time in this World Cup as their key batsman Hashim Amla is also out of the team after he suffered from a head injury in the first game against England. Key Protea fast bowler Lungi Ngidi also suffered from an injury in the second game against Bangladesh.
India will play against South Africa today in Southampton and the men in blue will look to start their World Cup campaign with a win. South Africa lost their first two matches against England and Bangladesh and will give their 100 percent to win this game to help their mental space.
Also read: Big relief for India ahead of South Africa clash, this destructive bowler ruled out of World Cup
First published: 5 June 2019, 11:08 IST