GATLAND BUILD-UP HEADACHE
‘Devastated’ Ben is ruled out after breaking finger and is big doubt for Tests BRITISH & IRISH LIONS TOUR
BEN STOKES says he is “devastated” that a broken finger has ruled him out of the Indian Premier League – and made him a major doubt for the start of England’s summer.
Stokes damaged his left index finger fielding for Rajasthan Royals against Punjab Kings in their opening match on Monday.
The all-rounder needed treatment after taking a catch in the deep to dismiss West Indies batsman Chris Gayle.
X-rays showed a break and the 29-year-old could yet require surgery on his return home.
“I’m devastated,” said the Mirror Sport columnist. “To suffer a broken finger in the very first game is just devastating.
“It was great to be back out on the field, but it can be a cruel game sometimes.”
A second scan should show more detail once the swelling has reduced.
With ECB doctor Rob Young working for the Royals this season it makes communication between the club and England much easier.
But what is already clear is that Stokes will not be playing any further part in the tournament this year, and his involvement in England’s Test series with New Zealand in June is also in doubt.
If the break doesn’t require immediate attention Stokes will stay and help his team-mates for a week or so as part of the leadership group at the franchise.
A Royals statement said: “Everyone admires Ben for being such a huge asset and a valuable member of the Royals family, both on and off the field, and wishes him a speedy recovery.”
There is renewed hope though that the Royals may get to see something of England paceman Jofra Archer this season.
Archer has been given the allclear following recovery from hand surgery. are due to play Japan on 26 June at Murrayfield and Gatland (left) wants a two-week camp in Jersey ahead of that. The Premiership final is also on 26 June but at the moment clubs are not willing to release players who will not be involved in the domestic showpiece. It is not just England players who are affected, there’s Northampton and Wales fly-half Dan Biggar and Welsh No.8 Taulupe Faletau of Bath.
Gatland said: “I’m hoping we don’t have to go through the squad and start looking at 50-50 calls on players and thinking, ‘Well, he’s based in England so he’s not going to be available to us’.”