England’s fast bowler Saqib Mahmood faces yet another injury blow, ruling him out of the upcoming T20I series against Ireland and the white-ball tour of New Zealand. The 26-year-old seamer picked up a knee problem that needs minor surgery, as confirmed by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). This comes after Mahmood sat out the first two T20Is in the ongoing series against South Africa, where he had a tough time in the second ODI at Lord’s, ending wicketless in a close five-run loss.
It’s a tough setback for Mahmood, who’s been fighting back from a two-year absence due to back stress fractures. Since his return, he’s shown real promise—grabbing nine wickets at an average of 10.55 in England’s T20I tour of the Caribbean last year, and starring in the 3-0 ODI whitewash of the same team in June. Just recently, he sealed the deal for Oval Invincibles in their third straight Hundred title by taking the final wicket against Trent Rockets.
Stepping into Mahmood’s shoes for the Ireland T20Is is exciting young pacer Scott Currie from Hampshire and Scotland. At just 24, Currie earned his spot right after shining at T20 Finals Day for Hampshire. He snared two wickets in the semifinal win over Northamptonshire but couldn’t quite turn things around in the final loss to Somerset, where a dropped catch let Sean Dickson off the hook.
Currie has some international experience too, with three ODIs for Scotland in the World Cricket League Division 2 in Dubai. But with Scotland missing out on this year’s T20 World Cup, this England call-up feels like a big opportunity for the fast bowler.
England heads to Malahide for three T20Is against Ireland on September 17, 19, and 21. Rising star Jacob Bethell will captain the side for the first time, as senior players gear up for the Ashes. Fans will be hoping Currie grabs his chance in this key T20 cricket fixture.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
