Pakistan Super League franchise Karachi Kings faced a major blow on Thursday after 13 of its players were affected by food poisoning.

Reports said that at least one player, South African batsman Leus du Plooy had to be hospitalised.

However, the team has expressed hope it will field a competitive team in the next match.

English batsman James Vince and Australian bowler Daniels Sams is also among those affected by the illness. Coach Phil Simmons is also said to be suffering from food poisoning.

The Kings are set to take on Quetta Gladiators in the National Cricket Stadium on Thursday.

Karachi have already had a mixed beginning to their tournament, winning only two out of their four games so far.

They lost a one-sided game to Islamabad United on Wednesday, the firsm match played this year in Karachi.