Johnny Bairstow, the destructive English wicketkeeper-batsman, has had a saddening start to the 2023 IPL season as he has been rejected due to a knee injury. The injury is a big blow for his team, Punjab Kings as they will miss his dynamic batting at the top of the order and his excellent wicket keeping skills behind the stumps.

Bairstow‘s injury was first announced during a practice session before the start of the IPL season by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). ECB gives him a NOC certificate. It was later confirmed that he had carried a knee injury that would bring him out of IPL for a significant period of time. The exact severity of the injury has not been disclosed yet, but it is clear that he will not be able to play in the IPL 2023 season.

The injury will undoubtedly be frustrating for him as he was in excellent form coming into the tournament. Bairstow has been an integral part of the Sunrisers Hyderabad team over the past few seasons, but this year in an auction Punjab Kings bought him for 6.75 crores. 

He has formed a formidable opening partnership in IPL history. Bairstow’s explosive batting at the top of the order has been a major reason behind the Sunrisers’ success in recent years, but Punjab kings miss this destructive batsman this year. He has scored over 1291 runs in just 39 matches in IPL, with an impressive average of 35.86.

In addition to his batting prowess, Bairstow is also an excellent wicketkeeper

He has taken some stunning catches behind the stumps and has been a reliable presence for the Kings. His absence will be a big loss for the franchise, as they will have to find a replacement who can match his skills both with the bat and behind the stumps.

Bairstow’s injury is a reminder of the physical demands that come with playing professional cricket. The modern-day cricketer has to play in multiple formats throughout the year, which can take a toll on their bodies. Injuries are a part and parcel of the game, and players need to be mindful of their workload and take appropriate rest to avoid burnout and injuries.

In conclusion, Bairstow’s absence is a big loss for the Punjab Kings and the IPL as a whole. He is one of the most brilliant batsmen in the world and an excellent wicketkeeper. The franchise will have to find a way to cope without him, but they still have a talented squad that can compete at the highest level. Bairstow’s injury is a reminder of the physical demands of the game and the need for players to take care of their bodies to avoid injuries.