Rajasthan Royals’ start to the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League has suffered another blow. Bangladesh bowler Mustafizur Rahman will be missing the first game of the season.
After the tour of New Zealand, the Bangladeshi fast bowler will return home on April 4 before flying off to India. Bangladesh Cricket Board’s Senior Manager, Media & Communications, Rabeed Imam told media that Rahman is yet to join Rajasthan Royals.
“He has not yet left for India. He is with the team and will only leave with the team on Sunday.”
Mustafizur Rahman is expected to leave for India on April 5. He will have to undergo a mandatory seven-day quarantine period before training for RR. Due to the quarantine period, he is bound to miss the first game against Punjab Kings on April 12. Additionally, RR should be able to call up for his services in the second game against Delhi Capitals on April 15.
The left-arm pacer was bought by RR in the 2021 auctions for Rs 1 crore. He had enjoyed a breakthrough season in IPL 2016 when his then franchise Sunrisers Hyderabad lifted the IPL trophy for the first time. Rahman shone in the 2016 campaign as he picked 17 wickets in just 16 matches.
RR is already going to be without Jofra Archer for few weeks due to a hand injury. The Rajasthan-based franchise will be relying on Andrew Tye and all-rounders Ben Stokes, Chris Morris, and Shivam Dube to deliver the goods in the first game.
Rajasthan Royals fill sponsorship slots
While the selection conundrums are tricky to solve for RR, they have managed to fill the sponsorship slots for the season. As previously revealed by Sportsmint, they have filled the final slot with Goel Group.
Earlier this week, RR also announced the principal sponsorship deal with Dubai Expo 2020. They have also announced the new kit with the Dubai Expo logo replacing TV9 Bharti at the front of the jersey.