England’s preparations for the 2016 World T20 were dealt a severe blow with fast bowler Steven Finn being ruled out of the tournament with an injury, BBC Sport reports.
The ECB has named the 30-year-old Liam Plunkett as Finn’s replacement for the 8 March-3 April event.
One of the most talented bowlers to emerge out of England, Finn’s career has been affected by a spate of injuries.
He was ruled out of the tour to UAE against Pakistan towards the end of 2015, before making a comeback and impressing with his performances in the Test series against South Africa.
Things were looking good for Finn, as he was expected to lead the England pace attack in their World T20 campaign but he was once again left on the sidelines after suffering a side strain.
The injury which has seen him withdraw from the tournament to be held in India, however, is a left calf problem, but there’s no doubt that England will miss the guile and experience of Finn.
The 26-year-old took to Twitter to express his sadness at seeing a golden opportunity being snatched by yet another injury setback in his relatively short career.
Finn’s place will now be taken by Yorkshire veteran Liam Plunkett, who was considered unlucky to not make it to England’s 15-man squad in the first place after impressing in the English domestic circuit last year.
Plunkett, who was flown to South Africa for the T20 leg of the tour, was not picked in the playing eleven in either of the two matches.
Though an experienced cricketer at the domestic level, Plunkett has only featured in 13 Tests and 34 ODIs since making his national debut in 2005.
He has only played three T20I but has been more than impressive with seven wickets at an average of just 13.
Plunkett’s abilities with the bat will also add depth to the batting order and England cricket fans will certainly be hoping that the 30-year-old seizes the chance presented to him.
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