NEW DELHI: England's fast bowler,
Reece Topley, has suffered a devastating blow after being ruled out of the rest of the World Cup due to a left index finger fracture. This unfortunate news comes following England's 229-run defeat by South Africa, as announced by the country's cricket board (ECB) on Sunday.
Topley sustained the injury during the first innings and received medical treatment, briefly leaving the field.
Despite his determination to return to the pitch and contribute to his team, he did not participate in England's run chase as they faced a substantial collapse.
The 29-year-old had been England's standout bowler in the World Cup, amassing eight wickets in just three games, showcasing his prowess and importance to the team.
The ECB reported that scans conducted in Mumbai on Saturday, immediately following the match at the Wankhede Stadium, revealed the extent of Topley's injury. He is set to return to the UK within the next 24 hours and will work closely with both the England and Surrey medical teams to facilitate his rehabilitation.
While the ECB plan to announce a replacement in the near future, coach
Matthew Mott stated that
Jofra Archer, who is among the reserves, will not be included in the squad.
England, the defending champions, currently occupy the ninth position in the World Cup standings with just one victory in four games. Their next match is against bottom-side Sri Lanka, scheduled for Thursday in Bengaluru.
(With Reuters inputs)