IPL 2023: Star RCB batsman likely to be out of action for three weeks with heel injury

With only a week left at start of 16th season of Indian Premier League, RCB has suffered a huge setback. One of prominent players from batting lineup of Royal Challengers Bangalore side has sustained a heel injury and w he is likely to miss almost first half of IPL 2023. RCB is set to open its campaign on April 2 against Mumbai Indians

Ahead of start of IPL 2023, RCB's squad has witnessed a depletion as Rajat Patidar has picked up a heel injury and as a consequence might miss first three weeks of impending season. Patidar became a sensation for RCB in IPL 2022 after he came midway in season to replace Luvnith Sisodia, and ended up becoming 3rd highest run-getter of RCB with 333 runs after just 7 matches. In season, Patidar registered a century in crunch eliminator game. kck against LSG became fastest century by an Indian in IPL. 

Rajat Patidar injury

ESPNcricinfo, who is source behind this information, stated that Patidar is currently undergoing rehab at NCA in Bangalore. y furr reported that Patidar has been advised to take rest for 3 weeks before going through MRI scans that will determine his participation in remainder of tournament. Patidar's absence would mean a selection headache for Mike Hesson and team manment, moreover, batting order may see a reshuffle with Virat Kohli again taking 8up .3 spot. 

While Patidar is certain to miss a considerable part of IPL 2023, his injury is t only concern for RCB. 2016 finalists are also unsure of Josh Hazlewood's participation. Australian fast bowler is currently recovering from Achilles Tendonitis. Hazlewood was a part of Australia's squad that travelled to India for Border-Gavaskar Trophy. However, he could t get clearance to play eir of first two matches of series and left for home after 2nd Test. Hazlewood is a prominent member of Australian side that is set to play in World Test Championship final and Ashes in coming months. So, with serious competition scheduled, how likely would Hazlewood take part in upcoming IPL is anybody's guess.