Injured Kagiso Rabada was on Friday ruled out of the rest of the Indian Premier League after South Africa decided to call the pacer back as a precautionary measure ahead of the World Cup.

Rabada had missed Delhi Capitals’ last match against Chennai Super Kings due to stiff back. His unavailability is a severe blow to the franchise, which is striving to win its maiden IPL title. According to a statement from DC, Rabada, the current Purple Cap holder, has been advised to return home by Cricket South Africa (CSA).

“It is indeed very hard for me to leave DC at this stage of the tournament,” said the 23-year-old Rabada, who took 25 wickets from 12 matches he played this season. “But with the WC just a month away, a collective decision has been made for me in this regard. It’s been a tremendous season for me with Delhi, both on and off the field, and I truly believe that our team can win the trophy.”  Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting termed the development as ‘unfortunate’. “It’s unfortunate that Rabada is having to leave us at this stage. But I have full confidence in our team and I’m sure each and every member of this unit will step up to the occasion,” said Ponting.