England seamer Reece Topley has been ruled out of the World Cup with a broken
finger, the England and Wales Cricket Board has announced.
Topley’s long-running injury curse struck again during Saturday’s record defeat at the hands of South Africa in Mumbai, with the in-form left-arm seamer fracturing the index finger of his bowling hand attempting to block a drive.
The 29-year-old’s initial anguished reaction gave a heavy hint he was in trouble and, although he bravely returned to the attack with taped-up digits, follow-up scans have confirmed the break.
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Reece Topley strikes as South Africa’s danger-man Quinton De Kock nicks behind the second ball of the innings
England, who are in strife after three heavy defeats in their first four games, will send for a replacement but have yet to decide who will step in for their leading wicket taker.
Announcing Topley’s exit 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 the UK in the next 24 hours.
“He will work closely with the England and Surrey medical teams in respect of his rehabilitation. A replacement will be announced in due course.”
More to follow…