Ben Stokes says he is "devastated" to have suffered a broken finger which has ruled him out of the Indian Premier League.

The injury has also made Cumbrian all-rounder Stokes a doubt for the start of England's summer.

Stokes, 29, damaged his left index finger while fielding for Rajasthan Royals in their first IPL game against Punjab Kings on Monday. 

The Cockermouth star will undergo a second scan which is expected to help determine the next course of action.

Speaking in The Mirror, for whom Stokes is a columnist, he said: “I'm devastated.

“To suffer a broken finger in the very first game is just devastating.

“It was great to be back out on the field playing for the Royals, but it can be a cruel game sometimes.”

In a statement Rajasthan Royals said: “Everyone at Rajasthan Royals absolutely admires Ben for being such a huge asset and a valuable member of the Royals family, both on and off the field, and wishes him a speedy recovery.

“We are delighted that Ben would like to stay with the group to provide his valued support and inputs off the field.”

Stokes's involvement in England's Test series against New Zealand, which starts in early June, could now be in doubt.