Published: Sep 07, 2015, 10:55 AM (IST)
Edited: Sep 07, 2015, 10:55 AM (IST)
John Hastings and Peter Handscomb have been called as replacements for Shane Watson and Nathan Coulter-Nile for the remainder of the One Day International (ODI) series against England with the Australians leading 2-0. With three matches to go, the visitors have been struck by sudden injuries starting with David Warner fracturing his thumb in the very second ball of the second ODI at Lord’s. Watson and Coulter-Nile sustained their respective injuries later in the match but they went unnoticed due to the controversial dismissal of Ben Stokes. SCORECARD: Australia vs England, 2nd ODI at Lord’s, AUS won by 64 runs
According to a report from Cricket Australia, Darren Lehman said,” We’re disappointed to lose players of the calibre of David Warner, Shane Watson and Nathan Coulter-Nile but we have quality replacements on hand in Aaron Finch, Peter Handscomb and John Hasting.”
“We looked at all options including the possibility of flying in cover from Australia but the fact all three of the players we have drafted in are already in England means they can join us at short notice, be acclimatised to conditions and be available for selection immediately, if required. We look forward to them playing their parts in trying to ensure we finish this tour with a victory in the one-day international series against England, starting in Manchester on Tuesday night,” he added. READ: Nathan Coulter-Nile latest Australian to pick injury
While Hastings has an international experience for having played one Test, 11 ODIs and three Twenty20 Internationals for his country, Handscomb will make his debut if included in the playing XI.
Warner broke his thumb after being hit by a Steven Finn bouncer, Watson strained his right calf batting and Coulter-Nile strained his right hamstring in the field late in the match.
