IRELAND HAVE BEEN dealt an injury setback with the news fast-bowler Boyd Rankin has broken his leg and will miss the remainder of the season.
John Bracewell’s side continue their busy international summer this week when they welcome Pakistan to Dublin for two ODIs but Rankin will be absent after suffering a fractured left tibia.
The 32-year-old sustained the injury during a training session with his county duty side Warwickshire and will now miss this week’s series, the Intercontinental Cup clash against Hong Kong and the games against South Africa and Australia in September.
“It’s obviously a blow to lose a bowler of Boyd’s quality and experience at such a crucial juncture of the season, but these things happen in sport and we wish Boyd a speedy recovery,” Bracewell said.
The loss of Rankin — the leader of the attack — is a huge blow to Bracewell as Ireland look to win their first series against a Full Member nation on home soil.
After a humbling World Twenty20 campaign in March, Ireland’s poor form continued during a 2-0 series loss to Sri Lanka at the start of the summer.
The weaknesses, both in the bowling and batting department, currently besetting the side were ruthlessly exposed and Bracewell will be hoping for a better showing in Malahide against Pakistan, who have just drawn a Test series with England.
Before Rankin was forced to withdraw, the head coach had been able to name a full-strength squad following the return of Niall O’Brien and Craig Young. Now, his bowling resources aren’t nearly as strong.
The first game takes place on Thursday (10.45am) and tickets are available via Cricket Ireland’s website.
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