Even after a heartbreaking four-run defeat, New Zealand captain Sophie Devine's heart went out to Ellyse Perry following the Australia superstar's potentially World Cup-ending injury.
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Perry suffered damage to her right hamstring as the hosts emerged victorious from their sudden-death Twenty20 clash on Monday.
"Anyone that goes down at any point in a world event, it's really hard to see, especially someone like Ellyse because we know what she brings to the women's game," Devine said.
"People were saying she might not play this game, but I didn't have any doubts.
"She'd have to have her leg amputated for her not to take to the field.
"If (the injury is serious) it's a real blow for the women's game ... the world loses out on a great player."
With just six days until the final, it would take a near-miracle for the allrounder to recover in time if Australia get through Thursday's semi-final against England or South Africa at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
The 29-year-old looked shattered leaving Melbourne's Junction Oval on Monday, although Australia captain Meg Lanning said she was unsure about the severity of the injury,
Perry passed a pre-game fitness test, but after delivering a diving throw during New Zealand's innings she immediately winced in pain and clutched her right hamstring.
"It's really unfortunate for her to have to go off," Lanning said. "She's a really tough player but we'll just have to see what pans out over the next few days."
Australian Associated Press
