Stress fracture rules Sreesanth out of IPL

Sreesanth, the India and Kings XI Punjab fast bowler, will miss this year's IPL due to a stress fracture of his back.

He was one of Punjab's key bowlers last season with his 19 scalps making him the tournament's second highest wicket-taker. He was also involved in an infamous spat with Harbhajan Singh during the match against the Mumbai Indians.

"It is unfortunate that Sreesanth will not be participating in the season two due to his back injury," Punjab coach Tom Moody said. "He is a performer and was a great asset to the team last season and his absence on the field will surely be felt."

Sreesanth, who is currently in Sydney as part of his rehabilitation process, said he wanted to be with the team through the tournament even though he wouldn't be participating. "I will be their motivator and will cheer them through to the IPL season two finals." He will also interact with fans during the event in his role as 'fan mentor' and 'community face' for the franchise.

A string of injuries have kept Sreesanth on the sidelines for much of the time since last season's IPL. It has been nearly a year since he played for India, his patchy performances in the Duleep Trophy not convincing the selectors to pick him for the New Zealand tour. The latest fitness problem also reduces his chances of being part of India's defence of the World Twenty20, to be held in England this June.