Reports: Chris Gayle doubtful for rest of IPL 2014 due to injury

Chris Gayle going off the field after injuring his shoulder

Royal Challengers Bangalore’s powerful batsman, Chris Gayle is reportedly set to miss rest of the IPL after injuring his shoulder in the match against Rajasthan Royals at the Chinnaswamy stadium on Sunday.Gayle’s injury comes as a big blow to RCB as he did well in the last IPL and was expected to fire up things in the next few matches.

The destructive opener for RCB had been suffering from a hamstring injury before the start of IPL this year. On Sunday, while diving at a backward point to stop Ajinkya Rahane’s shot from going to the boundary, the West Indian injured himself even more. According to Cricbuzz, Gayle was taken to a hospital to get an X-ray done.

The Jamaican has not been in his best form in this season of the IPL with scores of 20, 27, 38, 4 and 19 in the last five matches that he has played for Royal Challengers Bangalore.

Gayle is the second player from RCB to be ruled out of the IPL due to injury. The first one being, Nic Maddinson who was replaced by South African batsman Rilee Russow.

Gayle’s injury may be a huge set back for RCB who is seen to be fighting for a berth for the play-offs. Bangalore can now get a replacement for Gayle from the list of players who remain unsold at the 2014 auction.

However, the claims have been refuted by RCB:

RCB quashes speculation over Gayle’s fitness and availability for the rest of the IPL. “He is not ruled out and no replacement is sought.”

— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) May 12, 2014