AGENCIES
RAIPUR
Ashish Nehra has been ruled out of the rest of the IPL with a hamstring injury. The 37-year old fast bowler had been one of Sunrisers Hyderabad's key players, with nine wickets from eight matches at an average of 22.11 and an economy rate of 7.65.
Sunrisers will book their playoffs berth if Kolkata Knight Riders beat Gujarat Lions on Thursday. If that doesn't happen, they have to win at least one of their two remaining matches to progress. Losing Nehra, who has swung the new ball and picked up early wickets, will affect their first-choice XI.
A press release from the franchise said Nehra "sustained a significant hamstring tendon injury during the match against Kings XI Punjab on May 15".
"Ashish Nehra is now in consultation with a specialist orthopedic surgeon for the most appropriate course of treatment to ensure a successful return to competitive cricket. Unfortunately he will play no further part in the ninth edition of the Indian Premier League for Sunrisers Hyderabad."
It is the second time he has broken down this season. Nehra had missed four matches with a groin strain that he picked up in early April. In terms of replacements, Sunrisers may opt for another left-arm quick Barinder Sran, who has picked up nine wickets from nine matches.
