Published: Jul 29, 2016, 10:36 AM (IST)
Edited: Jul 29, 2016, 05:09 PM (IST)
Australia’s spin bowler Steve O’Keefe was on Friday, ruled out of the series against Sri Lanka after he sustained a hamstring injury on the third Day’s play at Pallekele. While giving an update on his injury, Bupa Support Team Physiotherapist David Beakley said, “Steve injured his right hamstring while chasing a ball in the field during the second session yesterday (Day 3). Initial assessment indicates a moderate grade hamstring injury which means it is highly unlikely that he will be available for the remainder of the Test series,” as quoted by Cricket Australia. He further added, “Steve will remain with the squad in Kandy until the end of the Test and will undertake imaging on the injury upon his return to Australia.” LIVE CRICKET SCORECARD: Sri Lanka vs Australia, 1st Test at Pallekele
Meanwhile, left-arm orthodox bowler Jon Holland was named as replacement for O’Keefe in the Australian squad. Speaking on O’Keefe’s injury and impact on the series, Australia’s national selector Rod Marsh said, “It is incredibly disappointing for Steve to get this injury and I really feel for him. He was bowling well in the Test and had caused some trouble to Sri Lanka’s top order. The selectors have decided to go for a like-for-like replacement for Steve, in Jon Holland.” LIVE CRICKET UPDATES: Sri Lanka vs Australia 2016, 1st Test, Day 4
Marsh added, “Jon had a good end to the Sheffield Shield season and is currently in Brisbane with Australia A as they prepare for a four-day match against South Africa A. He will be on a plane as soon as possible and is a strong chance to make his debut in the Galle Test.”
