Australian representative Jhye Richardson will miss the Perth Scorchers' Big Bash qualifying final against the Sydney Sixers with the hamstring injury that has sidelined him since January 4.
One of the best quicks in the country, Richardson had been considered a chance to recover in time for Saturday's game, the winner of which will advance to the grand final.
But on Friday, the Scorchers confirmed Richardson had lost his race against the clock.
"Jhye is still working through his hamstring rehabilitation and will not be available tomorrow," WA Cricket state medical officer Dr Tom Hill said.
Richardson's injury is another blow to a bowling attack already missing Matt Kelly to concussion and Test player Ashton Agar, who is busy with a training camp ahead of next month's tour to India.
Paceman Lance Morris, also named to tour the subcontinent, is expected to return from illness after being named in the Scorchers squad.
Like Richardson, Kelly had been targeting a return in the match against the Sixers but will need more time to recover from the head knock he suffered in Perth's last-start win over the Melbourne Renegades.
During the Scorchers' innings in the field, the ball deflected from Aaron Finch's bat and into Kelly's face after it was thrown from the outfield.
Kelly fell to the ground and left the pitch bleeding shortly afterwards.
"Matt has been progressing through the concussion return-to-play protocols and is doing well overall," Dr Hill said.
"He will not be ready for tomorrow, but we are expecting him back to full training shortly after."
Kelly has not been replaced in the extended squad.
