Australia Hit by Double Injury Blow Before Final ODI
Australia faces a massive injury setback as Nathan Ellis and Joel Davies are ruled out of the final ODI against South Africa.
The Australian cricket squad has been dealt a significant setback heading into the third and final ODI against South Africa. Both fast bowler Nathan Ellis and left-arm spinner Joel Davies have been officially ruled out of the series finale, leaving the visitors with a depleted bowling arsenal.
Ellis Sidelined by Side Strain
Nathan Ellis, who has been a standout performer throughout the tours of Zimbabwe and South Africa, will be unable to participate in the final match in Potchefstroom. The pacer suffered a left side strain during the second ODI in Johannesburg. After bowling just four overs, Ellis was forced to abandon his spell, a moment that proved costly as South Africa went on to post a massive 365 runs to clinch the series 2-0.
The injury marks a recurring theme for the Australian pace attack, as Ellis becomes the second fast bowler to suffer a side strain on this tour, following Billy Stanlake's injury in Zimbabwe. Ellis is expected to return to Australia for rehabilitation, with the team hoping he recovers in time for the upcoming home ODI series against England on November 13.
Davies and Other Personnel Concerns
Adding to the frustration, spinner Joel Davies has also been ruled out. Davies sustained a hamstring injury while fielding as a substitute during the second ODI in Johannesburg. Having traveled as the team's second specialist spinner, he did not get a chance to feature in the playing XI before this injury forced him to return home to prepare for the domestic season with New South Wales.
Australia's selection headache extends beyond the bowling department. There is currently no clarity regarding the availability of wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis for the upcoming Test series starting October 9, following a finger injury sustained in the opening ODI in Durban.
Projected Bowling Attack for the Final ODI
With Ellis and Davies out, Australia will have only four fit specialist fast bowlers available for Wednesday's clash. The team management is expected to navigate the following changes:
- Pat Cummins: Expected to return to the lineup after missing the first two matches.
- Mitchell Starc: Likely to feature after being rested for the second ODI.
- Xavier Bartlett: Expected to retain his spot in the side.
- Josh Hazlewood: May be rested following his participation in the previous two matches.
As of now, Australia has not announced any direct replacements for the injured Ellis or Davies for the final encounter in Potchefstroom.
Updates from Australia A Tour in India
In other news, the Australia A squad currently touring India has also seen significant roster shifts. While Brendan Doggett, Fergus O'Neill, and Campbell Kellaway are returning home for the Sheffield Shield, several players are being shuffled for the upcoming unofficial Test in Puducherry.
Sam Harper, Jhye Richardson, and Liam Hatcher are set to feature in the second unofficial Test against India A. Additionally, Riley Meredith and Will Sutherland have been added to the Australia A one-day squad, replacing Jack Edwards and Aaron Hardie, with the latter sidelined due to a minor knee injury.