Sydney: D’Arcy Short will join the Australia squad as a replacement for the injured David Warner for the three-match T20I series against India. Warner limped off the field during the second innings of the second ODI against India after exhibiting discomfort while fielding on Sunday (November 29). Scans later revealed that he suffered a groin strain.
The left-hander was enjoying a brilliant run, registering scores of 69 and 83 in the first two ODIs against India. He has now been ruled out of the third and final ODI and the three T20Is that follow. Short, who was on standby, has been named as Warner’s replacement for the T20I leg.
Some bad news for Australia fans 🤕
— ICC (@ICC) November 29, 2020
David Warner has limped off the field after appearing to have hurt his groin while fielding in the second innings.#AUSvINDpic.twitter.com/8whmf2nEDD
Australia head coach Justin Langer said that Warner would utilise the time to recover, with an aim to get fit in time for the first Test, starting December 17. Meanwhile, Pat Cummins, the No.1 bowler on the MRF Tyres ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings, has been rested ahead of the first Test of the summer.
“Pat and Davie are critical to our plans for the Test Series,” said Langer. “Davie will work through his injury rehab and in Pat’s case it is important all of our players are managed well to keep them mentally and physically fit throughout what is a challenging summer.”
“The priority for both is being fully prepared for one of the biggest and most important home Test series we have played in recent years, especially with ICC World Test Championship points up for grabs.”
No replacement has been named for Cummins. Australia, who have already sealed the three-match ODI series with victories in the first two matches will meet India for the final 50-over clash in Canberra on Wednesday (December 2).
The hosts have also grabbed crucial ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League points and are currently sitting atop the standings table.
