Inglis Ruled Out of South Africa ODI Series With Fractured Finger
Australia wicketkeeper Josh Inglis has been sent home with a fractured finger from the ODI series in South Africa, throwing his Test tour into doubt.
Australia has been forced into squad adjustments ahead of Sunday's crucial second ODI against South Africa in Johannesburg. Wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis has been ruled out of the remainder of the series after sustaining a fractured finger during the 67-run opening loss in Durban.
The injury setback casts immediate doubt on Inglis' availability for the upcoming three-Test series against the Proteas next month. Leg-spinner Adam Zampa noted that the player was deeply disappointed to miss a potential opening in the Test batting lineup.
Zampa confirmed that the fracture does not require surgery, offering hope for a swift recovery during his rehabilitation at home. Inglis recently scored his second ODI century against Zimbabwe just a week prior to the mishap.
With Inglis sidelined, Test keeper Alex Carey is set to take over the gloves in the 50-over format for the first time since February of last year. Carey's inclusion offers him a reprieve after he was left out of the playing XI for the series opener.
In addition to Inglis' departure, left-arm quick Mitchell Starc has been managed for the clash in Johannesburg. Xavier Bartlett comes into the side to earn his 11th ODI cap.
Test captain Pat Cummins remains sidelined from the ODI setup, leaving star opening batter Mitch Marsh to lead the team. Australia must secure a victory to keep the three-game series alive as the hosts chase a sixth consecutive ODI series win against them.