Ashleigh Nelson (coach: Leon Baptiste, club: City of Stoke) will join Team England for the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham following the withdrawal of Dina Asher-Smith.

The Blackheath and Bromley sprinter, coached by John Blackie, injured her left hamstring during the women’s 4x100m relay final at the recent World Championships in Eugene, United States, representing Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

The Commonwealth Games gold and bronze medallist from Gold Coast in 2018 was due to compete in the women’s 100m and 4x100m relay at Birmingham 2022.

The multiple British record holder said:

“Unfortunately, I’ve got a slight hamstring strain and won’t be ready to race next week at the Commonwealth Games. 

"I love racing in front of a British crowd and was so excited to return to Birmingham, so I’m sad that I won’t be there, but I know that the athletes will put on a great show. Wishing the best of luck to all my teammates!”

Kelly Sotherton, Team England’s Team Leader for athletics at Birmingham 2022, said:

“It’s obviously really sad to lose Dina through injury, given her stature and standing as one of the best female athletes in the world. 

"We know just how much she was looking forward to being part of Team England at a home Games in Birmingham. We wish Dina well with her recovery and hope to see her back on the track very soon, doing what she does best.”