Cricket News

Big blow for England as premier bowler ruled out of 20-20 World Cup due to injury

In what would be a big blow for England, lead left-arm pacer Reece Topley has been ruled out of the 20-20 World Cup due to injury. The tall pacer rolled his ankle during fielding practice ahead of England’s pre-tournament match at the Gabba against Pakistan. The tall fast bowler was initially in doubt for the opening match against Afghanistan but his exit from the 20-20 World Cup means that the Three Lions have been handed a huge blow before the start of the World Cup.

Topley was part of all of England’s matches in the recent series against Pakistan 4-3 in what was the first series for England in Pakistan after a huge gap of 17 years. He was to be kept under observation before England’s first fixture against Afghanistan at Perth Stadium but now has been ruled out of the marquee event due to injury. He will have to undergo surgery for the unfortunate injury.

He picked up 11 wickets in 14 games for England

The big quick made a superb return to international cricket after there were impending fears that his career could come to standstill due to back injuries. Upon his return, he hit the straps quickly and was a very potent bowler for England. The 28-year-old has been a revelation for England with the ball in the shorter formats of the game and England will feel a big void due to his absence from the squad. He had scalped 14 wickets from 11 matches in 2022.

England have not picked a replacement for the tall left armer, but Tymal Mills and Richard Gleeson will be the top contenders to fill up for his spot. However, The Three Lions are not the only ones to have injury woes.

In what would be a huge shock to Sri Lanka their ace of pace Dushmantha Chameera sustained a wrist injury and was ruled out of the 20-20 World Cup 2022. For India as well, Jasprit Bumrah was ruled out of the showpiece event due to a back injury and Mohammed Shami was named as his replacement.