Date:13/05/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/05/13/stories/2008051355171900.htm

Sport - Cricket

Laxman ruled out of IPL

— File PHOTO

V.V.S. Laxman.

HYDERABAD: The beleaguered Deccan Chargers has suffered yet another jolt. Captain V.V.S. Laxman has ruled himself out of the remaining DLF-Indian Premier League owing to a hairline fracture just below the right wrist.

Just before a practice session at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, a visibly dejected Laxman said he had had another review with the orthopaedic surgeon on Monday morning and his injury was diagnosed as a hairline fracture.

Disappointed

“I was very keen to play in yesterday’s (Sunday) match and the coming one. But I found it nearly impossible to hold the bat and face even a tennis ball,” he said.

The elegant Hyderabadi, a picture of disappointment after the team’s dismal performance with just two wins from nine matches, said: “It’s sad that I had to miss some of the matches. It is all the more disappointing since the injury came when I was getting into the groove.”

His right hand encased in plaster, Laxman was in severe pain when he turned up along with his teammates for a function organised by Rotary International here on Monday. — Principal Correspondent