IPL 2018: Major blow for Rajasthan Royals as Buttler, Stokes head back to England

Kolkata: Rajasthan Royals comeback to the Indian Premier League (IPL) hasn't been a fairytale one. After two years absence, the team was expected to play well and challenge for a playoff spot.

The franchise even managed to go all out and sign Ben Stokes making him the costliest player in back to back editions, but inspite of having a good team, the blues are finding themselves on the brink of elimination.

In their must-win game against Kolkata Knight Riders, RR batsmen once again faltered at the crucial juncture and posted just 142 runs on board. In the end, KKR batting line-up chased down the target with 6 wickets to spare.

RR opener Jos Buttler has been one of the bright spots for the team in this years IPL. The England ODI opener has been in terrific form with the bat with four consecutive half-centuries to his game. Ben Stokes has failed to fire with both ball and bat but has been a crucial member of the side.

Heading into the final must-win league game, RR received a major setback as Buttler and Stokes will fly out to join the England Test squad and prepare for the upcoming series against Pakistan.

Speaking about the departure of England duo RR skipper Ajinkya Rahane said "We will miss them,". "I'm really happy for Jos because as a player you dream of playing Test cricket. It's everyone's dream to represent their country. I'm very happy for them. We are going to miss his inputs and his batting. Even Stokes - his all-round skills and his inputs. He's bowled really well.

With run-rate coming into play, Ajinkya Rahane's side who are currently fourth in the points table with 12 points from 13 games, need to beat Royal Challengers Bangalore in their final game to stand a chance of making it to the playoffs.