Already reeling under three defeats, Kings XI Punjab today suffered another blow after skipper Adam Gilchrist was ruled out of Friday's match against Royal Challengers Bangalore due to a hamstring injury.
In Gilchrist's absence, David Hussey will lead the side.
"I will not be available for tomorrow's match. There is a slight (hamstring) tear," the 40-year-old Australian told reporters on the eve of Friday's match.
Gilchrist pulled a hamstring while running a single and was retired hurt during the match against Kolkata Knight Riders last night here, which the Punjab outfit lost by eight wickets.
He said that he had undergone a scan on Thursday, which has revealed a hamstring tear.
"We will wait for further detailed results," Gilchrist said, adding he would keep everyone updated on his injury status. "There is nothing to hide. I won't be playing tomorrow."
Stating that while any sort of injury to any player can be frustrating and disappointing, Gichrist said it throws up opportunity for someone else.
Gilchrist said that Shaun Marsh was the best batsman in this format with plenty of talent and should lend strength to the team's batting, which is struggling.
{{/usCountry}}Gilchrist said that Shaun Marsh was the best batsman in this format with plenty of talent and should lend strength to the team's batting, which is struggling.
{{/usCountry}}Their bowling, too, has not looked lethal and they will be up against the likes of Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers and Saurabh Tiwary of the RCB on Friday.
Gilchrist blamed the batsmen for the team's failure in the tournament so far.
Kings XI Punjab has managed to win just two out of the five matches.