Hyderabad: Sunrisers Hyderbad have been dealt with a big blow just before the knockout rounds as Ashish Nehra has been ruled out of the remainder of the IPL due to a hamstring injury. The 37-year-old, who has been in fine form for both franchise and country, picked up the injury during the match against KXIP.

"Ashish Nehra has sustained a significant hamstring tendon injury during the match against Kings XI Punjab on May 15.

"Ashish Nehra is now in consultation with a specialist orthopedic surgeon for the most appropriate course of treatment to ensure a successful return to competitive cricket. Unfortunately he will play no further part in the ninth edition of the Indian Premier League for Sunrisers Hyderabad,” read a press release by the Hyderabad-based franchise, as reported by Espncricinfo.

The left-arm pacer had picked up nine wickets in eight appearances this season for SRH at an average of 22.11. Last month, he missed a couple of matches as well after picking up a groin injury during a game against Royal Challengers Bangalore. Having played cricket continuously without a break, his body has finally given in to the strenuous nature of the job, for someone of his age.

Sunrisers, who could book their place in the next round if Kolkata Knight Riders beat Gujarat Lions tonight, have the option of replacing Nehra with Barinder Sran in the lineup for the rest of the tournament.