DUBAI: The management of Lahore Qalandars confirmed on Monday that their captain Mohammad Hafeez has been ruled out of remainder of Pakistan Super League with a finger injury.

Hafeez was injured while bowling during Qalandars’ game against Karachi Kings on Saturday.

Tests revealed that his thumb was fractured and he needs a surgery. Subsequently, he will be out of action for four to six weeks, casting doubts on his World Cup hopes as well as the preceding ODI series against Australia in the UAE and England on eve of the mega event.

Hafeez, 38, is being released from the Qalandars squad and a replacement will be sought to cover his place.

“This is extremely disappointing for us that Hafeez has been injured and won’t be available to Qalandars for the tournament. We wish him quick recovery and back in action soon,” Sameen Rana, the manager of Lahore Qalandars, said in press release.

Hafeez had walked off the field immediately after suffering the blow to his right thumb when Colin Ingram hammered one straight back to the bowler, and the ball burst through his fingers.

A.B.de Villiers, who led the Qalandars on Sunday against Peshawar Zalmi, is likely to be named captain for the reminder of the tournament.

Published in Dawn, February 19th, 2019