After a brief two-match stint, Royal Challengers Bangalore fast bowler Dale Steyn was on Thursday ruled out of their remaining matches of the IPL XII owing to an inflammation in his shoulder.

The South African fast bowler, who had recently joined RCB as an replacement for injured Nathan Coulter-Nile, was forced to sit out of the match against Kings XI Punjab on Wednesday with what captain Virat Kohli called a “niggle” at the toss, but it has now emerged that the bowler cannot take any more part in the tournament.

“Dale Steyn has been prescribed with ample rest due to inflammation in his shoulder. On account of state of his health, Dale will not be available to take part further in the ongoing season of IPL,” Sanjeev Churiwala, chairman of RCB, said in a statement.

The injury-prone pacer had returned to the IPL after a gap of two years and straight away contributed to team’s winning cause by picking up four wickets in two games — against Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings.

“His presence has helped the team immensely and we are very thankful for the inspiration and passion that he brought to the squad. The team will deeply miss his energy and presence around. We wish him a speedy recovery and all the luck for all future endeavours,” the RCB chairman said.

Cricket South Africa (CSA) too confirmed later about Steyn heading back home, as he will be assessed by a shoulder specialist while measures would also be taken to get him ready for the upcoming World Cup.

“Standard Bank Proteas fast bowler, Dale Steyn, will return back to South Africa after his right shoulder flared up while playing for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League. Steyn will be assessed by a shoulder specialist and measures will be put in place to get him ready for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in England and Wales next month.

“Proteas team manager, Dr Mohammed Moosajee, explained: ‘Dale felt discomfort after playing his second match. Upon assessment and subsequent investigations, a flare-up of his right shoulder was confirmed.”

“With the World Cup around the corner, it is our priority to get him back to full fitness before the squad departs on May 19.

“He will consult a shoulder specialist upon his return and a recovery plan will be put in place,” said the CSA website.

The Proteas’ World Cup squad will assemble for their weeklong camp on May 12 prior to departing for the quadrennial event.