Australia may be forced to call up an additional batter for the squad ahead of the New Year’s Test in Sydney against India, following Josh Inglis‘ withdrawal from the series due to a low-grade calf strain. Inglis sustained the injury while substituting during the ongoing Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.
The 29-year-old was the only remaining spare batter in the squad after all-rounder Beau Webster was released to play in the Big Bash League. Notably, Inglis had played two BBL games for the Perth Scorchers between the third and fourth Tests of the current series before rejoining the national team.
CA will announce a replacement batter for the fifth Test in Sydney
Inglis’s injury could open the door for Nathan McSweeney to return to the squad, after he was left out in favor of Sam Konstas for this Test. McSweeney’s ability to bat in various positions could also give him a slim chance of being selected for Sydney, should Australia opt to add an extra batter instead of an all-rounder like Mitchell Marsh.
However, this is unlikely due to fitness concerns and the increased workload on Mitchell Starc, who experienced back issues during the third day of play at the MCG. Australia also has Sean Abbott and Jhye Richardson in the squad as fast bowling backups.
The injury is a significant setback for the Perth Scorchers. Inglis was permitted to play in two of their first four matches against the Hobart Hurricanes and Melbourne Renegades, as these games were scheduled between the third and fourth Tests.
However, he now has just 22 days to recover from the calf strain before Australia’s Test squad departs for the UAE for a pre-tour camp ahead of the first Test in Galle on January 29. Inglis will be in a race against time to be selected for Australia’s two-Test series in Sri Lanka, where his skill against spin will be a crucial asset.
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