England fast bowler Reece Topley has suffered a significant setback, being ruled out of the remaining matches of the World Cup due to a fractured left index finger. The injury occurred during England's 229-run defeat to South Africa.

Topley initially sustained the injury in the first innings and had to leave the field briefly to receive treatment. Despite his return to complete his bowling spell with figures of 3-88, he was unable to participate in England's batting innings as they faced a collapse.

The left-arm pacer's absence will be a loss for England as they aim to bounce back in the tournament.

Also Read: IND vs NZ Live Cricket Score, ODI World Cup 2023

The 29-year-old was England's best bowler at the World Cup with eight wickets in three games.

"Scans in Mumbai on Saturday, after the match at the Wankhede Stadium, revealed the full extent of the injury. Topley will return to the UK in the next 24 hours," the ECB said in a statement.

"He will work closely with the England and Surrey medical teams in respect of his rehabilitation."
The ECB said a replacement would be announced in due course but coach Matthew Mott said Jofra Archer, who is among the reserves as he makes his comeback from an elbow injury, would not be included in the squad.

"Jof is not going to be considered for selection, he is not going to be able to play a part in the end of this campaign," Mott told Sky Sports after the defeat.

Defending champions England are ninth in the standings with just one win in four games. They next play bottom side Sri Lanka on Thursday in Bengaluru.

 

Inputs from Reuters