Jaipur: Rajasthan Royals batsman Brad Hodge will not be fit for the Champions League T20 final on Sunday, the Royals coach Paddy Upton has told ESPNcricinfo. Hodge had injured his knee during the semi-final against Chennai Super Kings last evening in Jaipur. He has had scans on his knee, the results of which are awaited.
Hodge had collided with Shane Watson, whose head hit Hodge’s knee, at point during the final over of Chennai Super Kings’ chase and had to go off the field. Shaun Tait, the Australian fast bowler, is the only overseas player available on the Royals bench.
Losing Hodge is a blow to Royals’ chances of winning their maiden Champions League title. Batting at No. 6 in the role of a finisher, Hodge has scored 109 runs in three innings – two not-outs – at a strike rate of 198. His unbeaten 52 off 23 balls against Otago was instrumental in Royals securing a home semi-final, which they won by 14 runs.
