All-rounder Andre Russell has been replaced in the Sydney Thunder squad by fellow West Indian Carlos Brathwaite after Russell was ruled out of the remainder of the competition after suffering a left hamstring injury during Thunder’s win over the Melbourne Stars on Wednesday evening.

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“Andre has been playing with long standing tendinitis of the right knee, that flared up in the opening rounds for the BBL,” said Sydney Thunder Physiotherapist Murray Ryan.

“This was investigated via MRI following the Perth Scorchers game and several interventions implemented to assist his symptoms and allow him to continue playing.

“Unfortunately Andre's playing fitness has been compounded further by an injury to his left hamstring - the extent of this injury to be confirmed further via scans in Sydney tomorrow, however initial signs suggest a minimum 4-6 week recovery.”

Russell will be replaced by international teammate Carlos Brathwaite with Sydney Thunder Head Coach Paddy Upton paying credit to Andre Russell.

“It’s been a very tough period of his career with his pending judgement hanging over his head and to also be carrying a long standing injury into this tournament,” said Head Coach Paddy Upton.

“It’s credit to his professionalism and commitment to his game and Thunder that he’s stuck it out.”

Brathwaite was a member of the West Indies team that lifted the ICC World T20 in India, making an unbeaten 34, with Upton well aware of his talents after previously working with him in the Indian Premier League.

“Carlos is dedicated to learning and advancing his game,” said Upton.

“With both bat and ball he’s a very skilled T20 cricketer. I’ve had the pleasure of working with him for a season in the IPL and he really is the highest quality individual.

“He’s a top quality cricketer and person, which ticks the two big boxes when it comes to Thunder recruiting players.”

Brathwaite will be joined by England batsman James Vince as the club’s two overseas for the remainder of the tournament.