'Worst case scenario today with minimal swelling and maximum pain' - Alex Hales gives an update on his injury

Alex Hales had a tough time on the field during the recently-concluded Oval Invincibles vs Trent Rockets clash in The Hundred 2021. Although the dashing opener entertained fans with some brilliant shots, a couple of hits in the groin area made the going tough for him. It was the third of the second innings as left-arm pacer Reece Topley was handling the proceedings with the ball for Oval Invincibles.

Hales failed to connect two successive deliveries and both times he got smashed in the groin area. While many expected Hales to leave the field after the second blow, the veteran batsman continued to bat. He even played some delightful shots after the incident. Overall, he scored 25 runs off 15 deliveries which included three boundaries and a six as well.

Although Trent Rockets lost the game by nine runs, Hales’ fighting spirit was lauded by one and all. Social media also got flooded with praises for the 32-year-old opener. Overwhelmed by the response, Hales took to Twitter on Monday (August 9) and shared a heartfelt note. He thanked his fans and well-wishers for showing empathy towards him instead of finding the episode funny. On the unfortunate side, Hales mentioned he’s feeling more pain although the swelling isn’t much.

It’s minimal swelling and maximal pain: Alex Hales

“Appreciate all the messages of concern after last night. It’s great to know that my well-being was at the forefront of everyone’s thoughts and that no one found it funny in the slightest! Unfortunately, it’s the worst-case scenario today with minimal swelling and maximal pain,” he tweeted.

Appreciate all the messages of concern after last night.. 🥜 It’s great to know that my well-being was at the forefront of everyone’s thoughts and that no one found it funny in the slightest!Unfortunately it’s worst-case scenario today with minimal swelling and maximal pain 😢

— Alex Hales (@AlexHales1) August 9, 2021

The comment section got flooded in no time with fans sending speedy-recovery wishes to the England opener. As far as the happenings of the games are concerned, the match was reduced to 65 balls per side with rain wiping out a significant part of the contest. Riding on a brilliant half-century from opener Jason Roy, the Invincibles posted 125/6 while batting first.

In reply, the Rockets were in the hunt for the majority of the contest. Besides’ Hales 25, skipper Lewis Gregory slammed 28 off 12 balls. However, their efforts couldn’t prove to be enough as the Sam Billings-led side walked away with a nine-wicket win.