Royal Challengers Bangalore sign Chris Jordan to replace injured Mitchell Starc

England fast bowler Chris Jordan will be leaving his domestic side Sussex immediately to join Royal Challengers Bangalore as a replacement for the injured Mitchell Starc, reported ESPNCricinfo. Jordan, a member of the England side who made it to the final of the World T20, emerged as one of England’s key death bowlers in the tournament.

This happens to be the second replacement signed by the RCB side after they brought in South African-born chinaman bowler Tabraiz Shamsi few days back.

The fast bowler is currently vying for a spot in the Test team and had a decent chance of winning a place in the Test squad for the series against Sri Lanka in the absence of the injured Mark Wood. His decision to play in the IPL is unlikely to affect his immediate Test ambitions, though the England management have previously recognised the benefits of their players gaining experience in other domestic T20 leagues. He was not picked up by a franchise during the auction in February.

Sussex are understood to be unconcerned about Jordan’s decision. He has yet to appear for them so far this season, having missed the opening rounds of the Championship to rest an elbow problem.

Players required for Test duty by England will be required to return to the UK by noon on May 6, with most non-Test players required to return by noon on May 17 to ensure their availability in the opening round of T20 Blast matches on May 20.

But, it is now highly unlikely that Jordan will be back by then. It remains to be seen if he will be back in time for the Natwest T20 blast which starts on May 20. The Indian Premier League concludes only on May 29.

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