London, March 16 (Hindustan Reporter) Three weeks before the start of the County Championship, Somerset suffered a major blow when Australian all-rounder Will Sutherland was ruled out of the club due to injury.
The 24-year-old Sutherland experienced a back problem while captaining Victoria during the final round of Sheffield Shield matches, after which he decided not to link up with Somerset on medical advice. They were scheduled to play the first block of championship games in April and May, followed by the Vitality Blast group stage.
“Everyone involved in the team really feels bad for Will, as he has been enjoying the challenge of playing for Somerset this summer,” Somerset director of cricket Andy Hurry told the club on Friday. We wish him a speedy recovery. Obviously, losing a quality player so close to the start of the season is a blow, and our focus is now on securing a suitable replacement.”
Sutherland, who made his ODI debut for Australia last month, signed to play for Essex last summer before being ruled out due to a stress fracture in his back.
On the other hand, Somerset will have the services of Matt Renshaw to start the season after signing for his third stint at Taunton. The Australian opening batsman will be available for the first seven matches of the championship starting from April 5.