Chris Jordan set for IPL stint

MUMBAI: Chris Jordan, the England fast bowler, has signed for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL.

Jordan, a member of the England side that made it to the final of the World T20, is expected to leave Sussex immediately as a replacement for the injured Mitchell Starc.

While Jordan emerged as one of England’s key death bowlers in the World T20, he also 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 further 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 phlegmatic 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. It seems safe to assume Jordan will not now return until May 17.