IPL 9: Blow for Supergiants, Kevin Pietersen ruled out
Pune: Former England batting star Kevin Pietersen has been ruled out of the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) owing to a calf injury, dealing a blow to Rising Pune Supergiants' hopes of reviving their stuttering campaign.
Pietersen, who had injured his right calf against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Friday and was carried off the field, announced he would not take further part in the cash-rich via his Instagram account.
"Over & out, India! Injuries are all part of the job! Horrible tear in my calf! Sad to be leaving a really great bunch of boys but looking forward to being back with my family! London bound for a summer off! Vacation till November! Bye for now! Lots of love, KPxxx," the 35-year-old wrote on his Instagram account.
He posted a picture of himself in a wheelchair in the dressing room, with strapping on his calf, alongside the word 'Urgh!' on Facebook soon after the incident.
Ice on the hour, every hour, all day! pic.twitter.com/RGm9mMO7Mt
— Kevin Pietersen (@KP24) April 23, 2016
Pietersen on Saturday underwent a scan where the severity of the injury was confirmed, ending his IPL season early.
Mumbai - London #ChaloChalo pic.twitter.com/wM4kJikc5b
— Kevin Pietersen (@KP24) April 24, 2016
Pietersen, who has not played for England since their 5-0 defeat in the 2013-14 Ashes series in Australia, had scored 73 runs from four IPL innings at an average of 36.50 and strike rate of 119.67.
On board your wonderful football team's carrier, @piersmorgan! We'll never be first to leave or land! #4th pic.twitter.com/SDN2aLwgzB
— Kevin Pietersen (@KP24) April 24, 2016
Supergiants are currently second last on the points table with three losses from four matches in their maiden season.