Thiruvananthapuram: The 17th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to kick off with an exciting clash between defending champions Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on the 22nd.
However, teams are facing challenges this season, primarily due to injuries and players’ withdrawals. Franchises are considering filing a complaint with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding these withdrawals, citing difficulties in finding replacements and the wastage of significant sums spent during the star-studded auction for these players.
Several teams have been impacted by the absence of key players. Gujarat Titans will miss top wicket-taker Mohammad Shami due to an ankle injury sustained during the 2023 World Cup. Australian wicketkeeper Matthew Wade is unlikely to be available for the Titans first two matches due to commitments with Tasmania in the Sheffield Shield final.
The Lucknow Super Giants face the absence of Mark Wood, withdrawn by the England Cricket Board to manage his workload ahead of the T20 World Cup. West Indies player Shamar Joseph has been included as a replacement.
Rajasthan Royals pace bowler Prasidh Krishna will miss the IPL for the second consecutive year due to injury, with a replacement yet to be named.
Kolkata Knight Riders have experienced withdrawals from England opener Jason Roy and pace bowler Gus Atkinson due to personal reasons. Phil Salt and Dushmantha Chameera have been named as replacements, respectively.
Additionally, the Chennai Super Kings will be without New Zealand opener Devon Conway due to a thumb injury, with no replacement appointed yet.
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