In a massive blow to Rajasthan Royals (RR), opener Jos Butler has pulled out of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 remainder, scheduled to be held in the UAE from September 19, due to personal reasons.
The franchise took to Twitter to inform about the development. RR sa id that Buttler and his wife are expecting their second child and as a result, the England player will spend time his family before landing in UAE for T20 World Cup 2021.
“Jos Buttler will not be part of the remainder of #IPL2021, as he and Louise are expecting a second child soon. We wish them well, and can’t wait for the newest member of the #RoyalsFamily,” RR tweeted.
Earlier during the first phase of the 14th edition, Buttler had regained form after smashing a brilliant 124 off just 64 balls.
Royals have now signed New Zealand’s Glenn Philips, who has played 25 T20Is, as Buttler’s replacement.
Notably, Buttler is the second English cricketer to miss the lucrative league after Jofra Archer was ruled out of due to elbow injury.
Meanwhile, uncertainty also looms over all-rounder Ben Stokes’ availability as he is on a break from the game. Stokes is also not part of the ongoing five-match Test series against India.