Prolific top order batter Jonny Bairstow will miss the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League, confirmed Punjab Kings on Saturday. Bairstow, who had underwent surgery on a broken leg and dislocated ankle last October, hasn't been issued the NOC for the season after not having completely recovered from the injuries he sustained while playing golf with friends in Yorkshire when he slipped and suffered multiple fractures in his fibula. Bairstow broke his left leg and dislocated his ankle on September 2, days before the third and final Test of England's home series against South Africa. "Obviously, a player of Jonny's standing in the international game, it's a shame not to have him," said head coach Trevor Bayliss in a video announcement on the franchise's social media. 🚨 IMPORTANT UPDATE 🚨 We regret to inform you that Jonny Bairstow will not be a part of the IPL this season because of his injury. We wish him the best and look forward to seeing him next season. We are pleased to welcome Matthew Short as his replacement. #PunjabKings pic.twitter.com/NnUMjCe8jV — Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) March 25, 2023 As a replacement, Punjab have brought Australian all-rounder Matthew Short into the squad, who will be part of the IPL for the first time and was the player of the tournament at the recent Big Bash League season. Bairstow had been the opening partner of Shikhar Dhawan last season in the IPL. A positive news from England for the Punjab franchise for the go ahead from the ECB for power hitter Liam Livingstone, who was his side's second highest run scorer last season. Punjab will kickstart their IPL 2023 campaign against Kolkata Knight Riders on Saturday, April 1 in Mohali.
