Ellyse Perry out of T20 World Cup

Perry, the No.1 all-rounder in women's ODIs and T20Is, picked up the injury during Australia's final Group A game against New Zealand on Monday, 2 March. In the 11th over of New Zealand's chase, Perry pulled up after gathering and releasing at mid-off and limped from the field with the help of support staff.

She is expected to be out of the game for "a significant period of time" and is set to miss Australia's tour of South Africa which will follow the World Cup.

Team doctor Pip Inge said in a statement on Tuesday: "Ellyse sustained a high-grade right hamstring injury that is expected to keep her out of the game for a significant period of time. We are currently exploring management options."

Australia have chosen not to name a replacement for her. She will remain a part of the 15-member squad, with coach Matthew Mott confident that they have the depth to replace her in the XI.

"Ellyse is a key member of our squad and has been for a long period of time and on a personal level we're disappointed that she won't have the opportunity to finish the tournament," Mott said. "She gives her absolute all every time she takes to the field for her country and that was evident again against New Zealand in the selfless manner in which she threw herself into her batting, bowling and fielding performances.

"We’re confident that we have enough depth in the squad to cover her batting and bowling and know whoever gets an opportunity will make a strong contribution."

This is the second injury blow to defending champions and hosts Australia, who lost speedster Tayla Vlaeminck before the start of the group stage.

Perry has just one wicket in the tournament so far, but has been extremely economical. Her late 15-ball 21 against New Zealand in the must-win clash was vital in taking Australia to 155/5 – in a game they won by four runs to reach the semi-finals.

Meg Lanning's side qualified for the semi-finals, which will be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday, as second from Group A.