NEW DELHI: In an unprecedented move, Punjab Kings have etched their name in the history of the Indian Premier League by fielding a solitary international player in their lineup.
South African batter Rilee Rossouw found himself as the sole overseas representative in the playing XI when Punjab Kings faced off against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
This unique situation arose as a result of several players being forced to return to their home countries, either due to injuries or to fulfill their national team commitments.
In the absence of regular captain Shikhar Dhawan due to injury and stand-in captain Sam Curran, wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma took on the leadership role during the game.
Meanwhile, pacer Kagiso Rabada returned to South Africa due to injury, and the English trio of Sam Curran, Jonny Bairstow and Liam Livingstone are set to play in a T20I series against Pakistan this week.
Australian fast bowler Nathan Ellis, who played in the previous match against the Rajasthan Royals, missed the game against the Sunrisers.
"We have few options because all the overseas have gone gone. Only Rilee Rossouw is gonna play. We have exciting talent waiting for their opportunity and they are gonna give their best today. Nothing to lose today, we are here to play some good cricket," Jitesh said during the toss.
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