The Australian team has suffered a major setback in the five-match ODI series against Sri Lanka. Australia’s star fast bowler Mitchell Starc may be out for the entire series due to injury. However, the Australian team has managed to take a 1-0 lead in the series by winning the first ODI.
Starc practices during training at Pallekele Stadium. But it is unlikely that he will be part of the Australian eleven in the series. Despite this, there is a shortage of fast shooters on the host team. A report on cricket.com.au said that the reason for his expulsion is that he is still injured and his finger has been bandaged.
It is not possible for him to play under the rules of the International Cricket Council (ICC). Injuries to four players in the space of a week left Australia without any fast bowlers and even if Starc is fit for the game, Australia will not be able to play one of their best 50+ bowlers.
The 32-year-old pacemaker was injured at the opening of the T20I series. Later, he did not play the remaining T20 matches while the injury had healed to some extent. Under ICC rules, tape to protect the hand or fingers can only be applied with the consent of the referees. Captain Aaron Finch said: “Starc and Mitchell Marsh are likely to be available in the third ODI.”
Cricket Australia has not announced Starc’s replacement. Pat Cummins is currently leading Australia’s fast bowling attack in place of Starc. Jose Hazlewood is also available for the remaining matches.