England batter Joe Denly has been ruled out of the ongoing T20I series against New Zealand after suffering an ankle injury. The cricketer damaged his ligament in the ankle during a practice session before the opening game on Friday, in which he was expected to play. Following the injury, England’s Lewis Gregory made his debut as the team went on to win the clash by a margin of seven wickets. Along with Somerset’s Gregory, Worcestershire’s seamer Pat Brown and Surrey left-arm bowler Sam Curran also made their debuts in the first game of the series.
Denly had been included in the T20I squad for the tour after a number of regulars were rested for the series. He had recently played the Ashes series against Australia at home, where he scored 312 runs in the five games. He has also been named in the two-match Test series against the Black Caps, though his participation will depend on how well he responds to treatment. He will be a part of a rehabilitation programme and will be constantly monitored ahead of the Test series, according to an ECB spokesperson.
England has not called in for a replacement for Denly for the T20I games and will hope that he recovers in time for the five-day format. The second T20I will be held at Wellington on Sunday, November 3.