Shane Watson to miss BPL 2017 after picking up hamstring injury

What's the story?

Hard-hitting former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson has been ruled out of the 2017 edition of the Bangladesh Premier League after picking up an injury. Watson was bowling for his local side Sutherland when he picked up a hamstring injury, effectively putting him on the sidelines for 5-6 weeks.

In case you didn't know...

Watson was set to feature for the Dhaka Dynamites this time around, in what was supposed to be his first foray into Bangladesh's marquee T20 league. However, the injury means he will be taking no part in the tournament.

Watson has been in good form with the bat of late, averaging over 80 for Sutherland. However, he failed to replicate that in his bowling, going wicketless across 19 overs.

The BPL was considered to be a preparation of sorts for the erstwhile all-rounder ahead of the Big Bash League.

The Dynamites have acted quickly, roping in West Indian Kieron Pollard in Watson's place.

The heart of the matter

While the 36-year-old will miss the tournament in Bangladesh, he is set to feature in the Big Bash League that begins just a week after the culmination of the BPL. The Sydney Thunder confirmed that the Australian is likely to be fully fit in time for the side's opening encounter against the Sydney Sixers.

What's next?

The Dhaka Dynamites succumbed to a massive defeat in their opening match, falling to the Sylhet Sixers by nine wickets. They will look to get their campaign back on track when they take on Khulna Titans later today (Nov 5). The final of the competition will be played on December 12th, following which the BBL will raise its curtains - on the 19th of December.

Author's take

Injuries are a part and parcel of sport, but it is always a shame to see players miss major events due to the same. Watson has been prone to injuries in the last few years - he has suffered calf strains, abdominal injuries, you name it - and with him not getting any younger, maybe it is time for him to hang up his boots and replace the Dukes in his hand with a Crown Lager.