Hodge called up for national duty, jolt for Kolkata

Even before the nerves from Thursday night could have settled, news filtered through that Australian batsman Brad Hodge — called as a back-up for Ricky Ponting and Brendon McCullum after the duo left for national duty — would have to leave the team following his sudden call-up for the Australian Test team. For a batting line-up that is struggling to find the right combination as well as big runs, this could turn out to be a big blow.

Hodge has been summoned for the West Indies tour as newly appointed vice-captain Michael Clarke pulled out after his father was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s disease, even as his fiancée Lara Bingle’s father battles liver cancer.

Speaking to The Indian Express, Hodge said he “was disappointed to be leaving the Knight Riders mid-way through the IPL”, but added that national duty came first. “Playing for Australia is the top priority, but I thoroughly enjoyed my stint with the team and camping here for the IPL.” Hodge is set to join the Australian team in Dubai or London during the break in journey to the West Indies.

Challengers, Knight Riders fined

Kolkata: Bangalore Royal Challengers were fined $1000 for slow over-rate in their Thursday’s match against Kolkata Knight Riders while the hosts also copped a $500 fine for a similar offence. The IPL authorities said that match referee Farokh Engineer imposed the fines in the 16-overs-a-side match.