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Big Relief For India! Star English Spinner Ruled Out Of Second Test With Injury

image-ls27kh0hJack Leach got injured while fielding (X.com)

England's premier spinner and one of the most crucial members of the Ben Stokes-led side in the Bazball era, left-armer Jack Leach, has been ruled out of the second Test against India set to be played in Visakhapatnam from 2nd February due to an injury to his knee.

Skipper Ben Stokes confirmed the news and mentioned that they were hoping for him to recover on time for the next game, but too much swelling has caused restrictions in his movements.

Further, Leach took a blow to his knee twice while fielding, which resulted in a deep bruise on the affected part, as he couldn't participate in the practice sessions after the conclusion of the first game. Alongside, he was also wearing compression tights but was still unable to be comfortable with the movements.

"He's ruled out of the second Test. Unfortunately, the knock he took resulted in a haematoma in his leg. It's a big shame for us, a big shame for Jack, obviously after a long time out of the game with his back,"

The fact that Leach was making a comeback after an extended period of time, having just recovered from a back stress fracture, makes things a little more frustrating for the English side.

"To sustain that injury, first game back, obviously it's frustrating. But it's something we're assessing every day. The medical team have taken over that, and hopefully, it's not something that's too serious and keeps him out for longer in the series,"

Ben, however, refrained from commenting on Leach's replacement for the Second Test, mentioning that they will have a good look at the wicket with uncapped Shoaib Bashir in the fray to make his debut if conditions permit.

"Myself, Baz [Brendon McCullum] and Popey [vice-captain Ollie Pope] will probably have a longer think about it. We looked at the wicket; I gave it a tap, and a play-around to make it look like I knew what I was doing. Bash is in the squad, we haven't brought him here to have an experience. If we feel we want to turn to him, we will."

Leach was able to bowl only ten overs in the second innings after sustaining the injury and was able to dismiss Shreyas Iyer, helping his side draw the first blood by 28 runs in Hyderabad.

The side will look to replicate their success when they take the field on 2nd February in Vizag with all eyes on the young spinner Bashir if he makes his debut.