On Friday, the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise faced a huge loss as their key bowler, Kagiso Rabada has been ruled out of the rest of the IPL 2019 due to injury. He has been called back by Cricket South Africa (CSA) as a precautionary measure ahead of the ICC World Cup 2019.

Even in the last game of Delhi against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Rabada was out of the playing XI due to a stiff back and his unavailability is a severe blow for the Delhi-based franchise, who are eyeing their maiden IPL title. 

ALSO READ: Pollard believes Hardik will be the trump card for India

According to a statement from the Delhi Capitals, Rabada, the highest wicket-taker in the tournament, has been advised to return home by CSA. He said, “It is indeed very hard for me to leave the Delhi Capitals at this stage of the tournament. But with the World Cup just a month away, a collective decision has been made for me in this regard. It’s been a tremendous season for me with the Delhi Capitals, both on and off the field, and I truly believe that our team can win the trophy.” 

DC’s head coach Ricky Ponting termed the development as “unfortunate”. 

Ponting elaborated, “It’s unfortunate that Rabada is having to leave us at this stage of the tournament. But I have full confidence in our team and I’m sure each and every member of this unit will step up to the occasion.”

ALSO READ: Anushka’s Birthday Celebration With Kohli Is No Less Than Romantic Movie

Kagiso has played a crucial role in Delhi’s quest to reach the playoffs for the first time after IPL 2012. The Delhi team will be locking horns with Rajasthan Royals in their last league match at the Feroze Shah Kotla Stadium on Saturday.