Luke Wright ruled out of World T20; Craig Kieswetter to replace him

Already plagued with injuries, England suffered yet another blow ahead of their World T20 clash against New Zealand later today, with all-rounder Luke Wright ruled out of the tournament due to a right side strain, BBC reported.

England have already suffered the loss of Joe Root and Ben Stokes who had been picked in the original squad but were ruled out due to hand injuries. Wright now joins them on the sidelines with a suspected right side strain.

Wright expressed his disappointment at having to leave the World Cup but also saw a positive side to it with him now able to be home for the birth of his second child.

Craig Kieswetter, the wicket-keeper batsman, will replace Wright in the England squad.

Kieswetter, 26, last played for England in a T20 International in 2012. The Somerset batsman’s last England appearance too came over a year ago in January 2013.

England are hoping that Kieswetter will arrive in Bangladesh by Monday after the International Cricket Council approved him as Wright’s replacement.

Kieswetter was a vital cog in England’s World T20 triumph in 2010 and was also part of the English squad at the World T20 in 2012. He lost his place in the limited overs side to former county team-mate Jos Buttler just over a year ago.

England are also waiting on skipper Stuart Broad’s injury update. Broad missed part of the recent West Indies tour and how his knee holds up will decide if England lose another vital cog in this World T20 or not.

Absolutely gutted to be leaving the World Cup injured. Hard to take but silver lining is I will now be at the birth of my second child.

— Luke Wright (@lukewright204) March 22, 2014