Former South African batsman AB de Villiers has pulled out of Pakistan Leg of the Pakistan Super League 2019 (PSL 2019). The Pakistan leg of PSL 2019 starts from March 09 and all the matches will be played in Karachi. ABD has left the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as well after suffering from a back injury. The doctors have advised him rest and thus he won’t be able to join the Lahore Qalandars squad. PSL 2019: 8 Matches Moved from Lahore to Karachi Due Delay Opening of Lahore Airspace for Commercial Flights Following Ind-Pak Tensions.

“It’s a disappointing news for Lahore Qalandars management and its fans that AB de Villiers will not be able to make it for Pakistan’s leg of PSL,” Sameen Rana, the manager of Lahore Qalandars, was quoted as saying by Geo News.

“Any update on replacement, if any, will be communicated in due course,” he added. PSL 2019 Most Runs: List of Leading Run-Scorer, Green Cap, in Pakistan Super League 4.

De Villiers, who made his PSL debut this season, featured in seven games for Lahore Qalandars and scored 218 runs at an average of 54.50. He also captained the side for few matches. Following his unavailability, de Villiers said that is disappointed not to play in front of the Pakistani crowd.

"I am very disappointed that I will not be able to play in front of the passionate Pakistani cricket fans. I saw my doctor who has advised complete rest for two weeks and, unfortunately, that rules me out of the games in Karachi," de Villiers said. AB de Villiers Smashes His First Six of PSL 2019 During Islamabad United vs Lahore Qalandars, Watch Video Highlights.

"I hope to be a part of the PSL next year and very much hope to play my part in the return of international cricket to the country. I am backing Lahore Qalandars to go all the way and win the trophy this year,” he added.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 04, 2019 03:08 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).