IPL: Rising Pune Supergiants call up George Bailey

Omnisports 10:11 - 02 May 2016

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As the Rising Pune Supergiants continue to lose their overseas stars to injury, George Bailey has been called up by the IPL newcomers.

George Bailey will join up with Rising Pune Supergiants, whose debut Indian Premier League campaign has been beset by chronic injury woes.

One of two new franchises for the 2016 season, along with Gujarat Lions, the Supergiants have lost Kevin Pietersen, Steve Smith, Faf du Plessis and Mitchell Marsh to various ailments.

It was confirmed on Monday that Australia captain Smith would have to return home due to a wrist problem, while Bailey has been called up to replace Du Plessis, who has been ruled out with a finger injury.

"Smith's [news has] been a bummer. He was just coming into his own and this happened," said Supergiants chief executive Raghu Iyer.

"It is a challenging time. Before we could settle down we lost the core group of players around whom you build a team around.

"We lost four crucial players, but we are looking ahead. Bailey has tremendous experience and had a very successful season before last. He can contribute to the leadership group."

Usman Khawaja has already been called up to replace Pietersen, who injured his calf, while cover for Marsh - struggling with a side strain - is expected to be announced later this week.