Mahika Gaur to miss The Hundred
The 18-year-old fast bowler had been retained by Manchester Originals for this season of the competition, after impressing in her debut year last season. Despite her age, Gaur has been in the spotlight on the international stage for some time, given that she debuted in T20Is aged just 12, for the United Arab Emirates.
She suffered the side strain earlier this year, and missed England's home series against New Zealand as a result. She had also missed the series before that against Pakistan, due to a schedule clash with her A-level exams.
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Gaur switched international allegiances from UAE to England in 2023 following the U19 Women's T20 World Cup, and made her debut for the country in a T20 against Sri Lanka in August that year. Her ODI debut came soon after, against the same opposition in September. Her last appearance in international cricket was against India in Mumbai last December.
Gaur's month off will be used for rehabilitation
She will now use the month off from The Hundred to carry on her rehabilitation process. Before the injury, Gaur had been representing North West Thunder in the Charlotte Edwards Cup. In two appearances this season, she took four wickets and maintained an economy rate of just over six an over.
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Side strains are not uncommon among fast bowlers, and Gaur's height (6'4") could also be a contributing factor to the injury. However, recovery can be slow and recurrences can take place if players are rushed back, meaning it is imperative they receive the correct care.
Even without Gaur, the Originals have a solid bowling lineup, with England's Sophie Ecclestone and Australia's Sophie Molineux forming a formidable spin attack. Lauren Filer has also been in good form of late, on the seam front, and she has Scotland's Kathryn Bryce for company.
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