Injury rules Notts Outlaws' Harry Gurney out of Vitality Blast

The left-armer, who has taken 115 wickets for the Outlaws in the game’s shortest format, will undergo an operation in September.

“Having gone through the same frustrations as everyone this year in waiting for cricket to restart, I’m devastated to have to miss the Blast,” he said.

“Some of the proudest moments in my career have been with Notts, and nothing quite compares to being out on the field at Trent Bridge competing for trophies with some of my best mates. To have that taken away for a year is tough.

“I have a huge amount of faith in the squad of players and in their ability to go deep in the tournament. I’ll be cheering them on for sure, and will be there with a word of advice or tactical input whenever it’s needed.”

Gurney, who joined Notts in 2012, was the Green and Golds’ leading wicket-taker in last summer’s Vitality Blast, with 22 scalps at 18.00.

“Harry would improve any T20 side in the world, so it’s a blow to lose him for this year’s tournament,” said head coach Peter Moores.

“With the experience and expertise he’s gained from a global white-ball career, he’s become a real leader in our limited-overs dressing room.

“What I always say in these situations is that - whilst we are all gutted for Harry - it does provide someone else with an opportunity and that can be exciting.

“There are a number of talented bowlers in our squad who are looking to take their next steps forward in the white-ball game - and there are some experienced men, like Luke Fletcher and Jake Ball, who will be very keen to take on extra responsibility.

“Meanwhile, we’ll continue tapping into Harry’s experience when it comes to our tactical discussions and advising our bowlers, as well as looking after him as best we can through his rehabilitation and the challenges that brings.”