Suranga Lakmal has been ruled-out for the remainder of the 2022 season with a right elbow problem that needs reconstructive surgery.
The fast bowler, who claimed his maiden five-wicket haul for Derbyshire against last month, had been working through the problem, which he picked up against Leicestershire in April, but was ruled out of last week’s game against Nottinghamshire, as the issue worsened.
Lakmal, who has a two-year deal with Derbyshire, will continue to be assessed by the Club’s Medical Team, and he will work closely with them throughout his rehabilitation process.
A replacement will be announced in the coming days, ahead of Derbyshire’s Vitality Blast opener against Birmingham Bears on Friday.
Head of Cricket, Mickey Arthur, said: “It’s never nice to lose a player, and Suranga has made a positive start to his time with Derbyshire.
“The injury is quite severe, so now it’s about making sure it’s sorted out properly, so he will be primed to come back next year and do well for us.
“I can’t speak highly enough about what Suranga has brought to us, I think you could see in the game against Nottinghamshire the impact he’s had on our bowling attack.
“That’s a pity, but it gives an opportunity for another player to come in to the county of choice, and hopefully we can push ourselves to greater heights.”
