England Fast Bowler Brydon Carse Faces Doubtful Return in Champions Trophy After Injury Concern at Gaddafi Stadium

England’s fast bowler Brydon Carse is facing a race against time to recover from an injury that may rule him out of the second Champions Trophy match against Afghanistan.

Carse’s absence at today’s training session has raised concerns, especially after the 29-year-old was noticeably missing during preparations for England’s crucial Group B fixture at Gaddafi Stadium.

Carse’s Injury Strikes Again

Carse’s participation in the Champions Trophy had already been in doubt after a toe injury kept him sidelined during the final week of England’s recent tour of India.

He was only cleared to play in the opening match against Australia at the last minute, and it’s understood he was still in significant discomfort while bowling.

Despite this, Carse delivered figures of 7-0-69-1, his worst performance of an otherwise solid winter season with England.

Unfortunately, the injury is on Carse’s landing foot, which makes it particularly problematic for a fast bowler.

With England’s next group game scheduled against South Africa on Saturday, it’s hard to see how Carse will be able to continue in the competition.

Waiting for Clarity on Carse’s Status

Ex-England captain Joe Root commented on Carse’s situation, suggesting it’s still too early to tell what exactly is wrong with the bowler.

“We will have to wait and see,” Root said, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding Carse’s availability.

The team will likely have more information in the coming days as they assess the injury further.

Who Could Step In for Carse?

Should Carse be ruled out, Jamie Overton is a strong candidate to replace him in the squad for the Afghanistan clash.

Overton had previously stepped in for Carse during a match in India but was sidelined himself due to hamstring and foot issues.

If Carse is officially confirmed out of the tournament, England may need to approach the tournament organizers to request a replacement in their 15-man squad.

Rehan Ahmed, who was part of the India tour but has since returned home to the UK, could be a likely contender.

Ahmed would offer England an extra spin option, something that could add balance to the team’s bowling attack.

England’s Cautious Approach in the Ashes Year

The situation is a tough blow for Carse, but England is expected to take a cautious approach, especially with the Ashes series on the horizon.

Carse had an impressive start to his Test career with 27 wickets in just five matches earlier this winter, and England will want to preserve his long-term fitness.

If Carse requires surgery to address the injury, it could impact his participation in upcoming events, including his assignment with Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League next month.

With so much at stake, both for the current tournament and his future commitments, the coming days will be crucial for Carse’s recovery.