In a surprising development for Indian Premier League (IPL) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) enthusiasts, star wicketkeeper-batter Jonny Bairstow will miss the entirety of the season.
The English cricketer, who plays for PBKS, has opted to skip IPL 2023 in order to concentrate on his recovery and prepare for the Ashes series. Notably, Bairstow has been sidelined for several months following a freak injury sustained last year.
According to reports, Bairstow will return to cricket with Yorkshire instead of participating in franchise cricket. He has made good progress lately after undergoing successful surgery on his left leg, including the insertion of a metal plate.
However, the high-stakes nature of every IPL match appears to be too much for the ailing batter.
“As such, Bairstow is expected to plan his comeback to playing at Yorkshire instead of the IPL that commences on 31 March and extends until the end of May. His franchise, Punjab Kings, would need to maintain a vacant overseas slot until midway through the tournament,” The Guardian reported.
