IPL 2018: These 5 big-money players will miss the T20 tournament this season

India’s cash-rich tournament, the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018 is all set to kick start with two previous champions, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) making a comeback after two years of ban. The season will start with the opening match against defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) and CSK on April 7. But before it starts, there is still a question mark over the availability of some big players.

In almost every season we have witnessed injuries of star players like last year Virat Kohli. Kohli was unavailable last year due to injury and Kolkata Knight Rider’s (KKR) all-rounder Andre Russell as he was serving a ban. This year too, there are some leading names who are doubtful due to injuries or possible ban. Check out:

Also Read: IPL 2018: These 10 marquee players weren’t picked at the auction this season

Mitchell Starc

Adding his name to the injured player’s list, Aussie pacer Mitchell Starc is ruled out of the tournament due to stress fracture in his right leg. Starc was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders for Rs 9.4 crore

Mitchell Santner

New Zealand all-rounder Mitchell Santner will miss the IPL as he has been ruled out of action for about nine months due to a bone defect in his knee and requires a surgery. Santer was picked by CSK by Rs 50 lakh and was expected to play a key role for the team.

Steve Smith

Following the controversy of ball-tampering, Steve Smith stepped down as captain of Rajasthan Royals. And now, there are speculations that Smith might not be able to join IPL this year. IPL chairman Rajeev Shukla said, “The BCCI and Rajasthan Royals will like to wait. As of now, no decision will be taken either by the board or the franchise. Smith is an important player for Royals and is their skipper. It’s only fair that they wait.”

David Warner

Similar to Steve Smith, David Warner too stepped-down as Australia’s vice-captain but his IPL franchise hasn’t made any statement on the issue.

Nathan Coulter-Nile

Another Aussie Nathan Coulter-Nile, brought by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has been ruled out with an injury. Coulter-Nile is replaced by Kiwi all-rounder Corey Anderson. Corey plays a bold game and has incredible potential.