The ICC T20 World Cup could be in doubt for Brandon King, the West Indies opener after he sustained a side strain during the match against England in St Lucia on Thursday. The extent of the injury and how long the tournament will last are big worries.
King scored 23 from 12 balls and hit a massive 101-metre six off Reece Topley. After taking one more step, on his 13th ball when he tried to hit Sam Curran, he collapsed and had to leave the field with medical assistance.
As it happened: West Indies vs England
He did not return for the remainder of the game, and Shimron Hetmyer substituted as a fielder during England’s run chase. Cricket West Indies confirmed what was wrong with him.
According to CWI, “Brandon King has suffered a side strain and will not return to the field of play in this evening’s match.” This was captured in their statement on X.
It might take several weeks for a side strain to heal properly which puts King’s further participation into some serious question marks. ESPNcricinfo reported that King could miss the entire tournament due to an Achilles problem as per ANI.
In addition to King’s injury, reigning champions England defeated West Indies by eight wickets in their first Super Eight match. As they proceed further into the competition, this is just a temporary setback for them all.
On Friday at Kensington Oval in Barbados, USA will face their second Super Eight match against West Indies.
