Australia faces another setback in their UK tour as fast bowler Xavier Bartlett suffers a side strain during the first T20I against England in Southampton. Bartlett’s injury comes after Australia has already lost pacers Spencer Johnson and Nathan Ellis to injuries, further thinning their bowling options. Ben Dwarshuis, a left-arm seamer from New South Wales, is flying to the UK to provide cover for the one-day squad, although he hasn’t been officially added to the team.
Bartlett pulled up with the injury during his fourth over, forcing him to leave the field, and it seems likely that his tour is over. Australia’s squad has been plagued by injuries throughout the tour, and with key bowlers like Pat Cummins missing the series and Josh Hazlewood just returning to action, they are left with limited options. If Bartlett is ruled out, Riley Meredith or one of the all-rounders may get the nod for the second T20I.
Injury Troubles Continue for Australia
Australia’s pace bowling department has been hit hard by injuries throughout the UK tour.
Xavier Bartlett’s side strain adds to a growing list of absentees that includes Nathan Ellis and Spencer Johnson.
While Bartlett’s impressive performance saw him take the wicket of Jordan Cox, his tour now appears to be over after he aborted his final two deliveries.
With the Marsh Cup and Sheffield Shield around the corner, Bartlett’s recovery timeline could impact his domestic season with Queensland.
Ben Dwarshuis to Provide Cover for ODI Squad
In response to Australia’s injury woes, Ben Dwarshuis has been called up to the UK.
Although not officially added to the ODI squad, Dwarshuis is expected to provide cover for the team.
Dwarshuis has previously represented Australia in T20Is but remains uncapped in the ODI format.
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The left-arm pacer will join Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc, who are expected to shoulder much of the bowling responsibility in the upcoming ODI series.
Australia’s selectors will have a tough decision ahead as they finalise the bowling unit for the remainder of the tour.
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