Hameed blow as England lose

THE premature end of Haseeb Hameed's tour added to England captain Alastair Cook's frustration after the third Test defeat to India.

The hosts beat England by eight wickets in Mohali to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the five-Test series.

And Hameed's tour is over because he needs to return home for surgery on a finger injury.

Cook said: "It's terrible luck on the young kid - but he'll come back again.

"We knew it was fairly serious. It's a real shame for him, hopefully the operation is a success and he can come back."

Hameed was praised for his courage for batting in England's second innings. The 19-year-old went in at number eight and made an unbeaten 59 which at least made sure India needed to chase a three-figure total.

Cook added: "He changed his grip so he wasn't hurting that part of his hand - it shows what a future he's got. He's made of the right stuff."

England head coach Trevor Bayliss was equally impressed with Hameed, adding: "He keeps amazing everyone with his attitude - you wouldn't have known it (the finger) was broken in the dressing room.

"It was a fantastic effort - another plus in his corner. Not only can he play but he's a tough little character as well.

"I think the doctors probably knew it was cracked but they didn't want to distract him either. It was a gutsy effort.

"We've had to talk into him the best thing is going home - he wants to get out and play."

Bayliss revealed no decision has been made yet about a replacement for the Lancashire youngster.

The Australian explained on Sky Sports 2: "We've got a few names in our mindset for sure but we've got to get together and chat as a selection group over the next 24 hours."

The fourth Test in Mumbai starts on December 8.