England player Reece Topley has been ruled out of the World Cup due to a broken finger, the England and Wales Cricket Board has announced.
Topley’s long-running injury curse struck again in Saturday’s record defeat to South Africa in Mumbai, with the in-form left-arm seamer breaking the index finger of his bowling hand in an attempt to block a drive.
The 29-year-old’s initial anguished reaction gave a strong indication that he was in trouble and although he bravely returned to the attack with his fingers taped up, follow-up scans have confirmed the fracture.
England, who are in contention after three heavy defeats in their first four matches, will field a replacement but are yet to decide who will replace the leading wicket-taker.
Announcing Topley’s departure from the campaign, the England and Wales Cricket Board said: “Scans in Mumbai on Saturday, after the match at the Wankhede Stadium, revealed the full extent of the injury. Topley will return to Britain within the next 24 hours.
“He will work closely with the England and Surrey medical teams regarding his rehabilitation. A replacement will be announced in due course.”
More to follow…