All-rounder Chris Morris has been ruled out of the Royal Challengers Bangalore's clash against the Kings XI Punjab in the 2020 Indian Premier League on Thursday.
Morris was not part of the XI for this week's win over the Sunrisers Hyderabad – and will remain sidelined due to a side strain.
“Chris, unfortunately, picked up a slight side strain a few days ago. He would have played a huge role through the middle and death overs, his batting would have had a huge impact as well,” said Bangalore head coach Mike Hesson, who used to work with the New Zealand national team.
“This does change the balance of our side. He is a three in one cricketer. He is not easy to replace and as a result, we had to change the structure of our side.
“Hopefully, Chris will come into consideration for selection in a game or two. We will continue to monitor him.”
Morris' List of Domestic T20 Teams
South African all-rounder Morris joined the Royal Challengers Bangalore roster after stints with the Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals in the IPL.
He has also played in Australia's Big Bash League for the Sydney Thunder and St Kitts and Nevis Patriots in the Caribbean Premier League. In South Africa's Mzansi Super League, he represents the Nelson Mandela Bay Giants.
The 33-year-old has been capped four times at Test level. He has played 42 ODIs and 23 T20Is.
The Royal Challengers have reached three IPL finals, but are still in pursuit of a first title. Morris' fellow South Africans AB de Villiers and Dale Steyn are also with RCB.
Other South Africans in the IPL
Several other South Africans are involved in the IPL, too. Wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock is playing for the Mumbai Indians.
The Chennai Super Kings have Proteas trio Faf du Plessis, Imran Tahir and Lungi Ngidi.
Mumbai are the reigning IPL champions. They have four titles – and triumphed over the Super Kings in the 2019 final.
This year's IPL is being played in the United Arab Emirates. Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Dubai are the host cities. The UAE also hosted parts of the IPL in 2014. In 2009, the whole competition was based in South Africa.