England fast bowler Tymal Mills is “beyond gutted” after he was ruled out of the Big Bash League because of the recurrence of a hamstring strain.

Mills’ congenital back condition has limited him to the Twenty20 format in recent years but his ability to exceed 90mph on a regular basis has seen him make a name for himself in a number of domestic franchise leagues.

The Sussex left-armer was set to represent Hobart Hurricanes for the second year in a row but is set to be sidelined for eight weeks after suffering an injury while bowling in a practice fixture on Thursday.

Mills said on Twitter: “Beyond gutted. Arrived out here in probably the best shape of my career so to go down before the tournament had begun is so disappointing. Backing the boys all the way and will be supporting from back home.”

Hurricanes head coach Adam Griffith added on the club’s official website: “This comes at a really unfortunate time for Tymal. He was bowling well and feeling really good as a result of playing Cricket throughout the year leading up to the Big Bash season.”