HAMPSHIRE batsman Aneurin Donald admitted he had been left “devastated” after suffering a recurrence of a serious knee injury.

The 24-year-old first ruptured his anterior cruciate knee ligament in December 2019 and took 14 months of rehabilitation to recover.

The former Glamorgan man then reported a knee twist in an internal game in March, with scans showing his original ACL graft had failed.

Having gone under the knife once again, Donald is set to be sidelined for the entire 2021 campaign.

He told the club website: “I’m devastated to be back on the sidelines following my reinjury.

“It’s certainly a tough pill to swallow after such a long rehabilitation process that led to me being back in a position to feature on the pitch at the start of this pre-season.

“Unfortunately, after trying to continue without a functioning ACL, a scan showing a tear in my Meniscus a few weeks later finally led to surgery being the only remaining option.

“Fortunately, with thanks to Andy Williams and his team at the Fortius Clinic, my second surgery was a success, and I have already begun to dive into the rehabilitation process once again with a full recovery fully expected.

“I want to specifically thank all of the science and medicine team at the club who have done everything in their power to help me through this process and continue to do so.

“To the fans, I’m sorry I won’t be back on the park this year and able to contribute to the club, and I am ever grateful for the support shown to me since I’ve made the move down south.

“Finally, to all of the people who have helped me throughout, from team-mates and coaches, to family and friends, thank you.

“I can’t wait to be back out in the middle next season and better than ever!”

Swansea-born Donald averages just more than 32 in first-class cricket with three centuries and 15 fifties across his career.