Why is Dale Steyn not playing vs Kings XI Punjab?

Dale Steyn not playing vs Kings XI Punjab: Royal Challengers fast bowler hasn’t been included to their Playing XI vs KXIP.

During the 42nd match of the ongoing 12th season of the Indian Premier League between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kings XI Punjab at Bengaluru, Royal Challengers Bangalore fast bowler Dale Steyn hasn’t been included in their Playing XI.

Been a game-changer for RCB with the new ball since his arrival in IPL 2019, there is not even an iota of doubt that Steyn will be missed in front of his home crowd. Steyn’s average of 17.25 and a strike rate of 12 in a couple of matches has fared well for Bangalore.

Speaking during the toss, Royal Challengers captain Virat Kohli disclosed the reason behind not including the veteran fast bowler. “After six losses, we’re just thinking about enjoying our game. And that’s what we’re going to do here too. It’s the other teams that have to worry about the playoffs. Dale Steyn has a shoulder niggle,” Kohli was quoted as saying.

“Lost eight out of 11 tosses now. Not really focussing on these things too much. Last game also we lost the toss, looked like we’d lose the game too, but we came out on top. No team wants to play against a team that has already lost six in a row. Cause we have nothing to lose and we’re on a roll,” says Kohli added.

Who has replaced Dale Steyn?

In Steyn’s absence, RCB have recalled Tim Southee into the squad. In the two matches which the New Zealand fast bowler has played in IPL 2019, he picked up a lone wicket at an average of 85, an economy rate of 14.16 and a strike rate of 36.

Royal Challengers have also included all-rounder Washington Sundar in place of Pawan Negi.

On the contrary, the visitors in Kings XI have brought in wicket-keeper batsman Nicholas Pooran and pacer Ankit Rajpoot in place of the all-rounder duo of Sam Curran and Harpreet Brar.