Big set-back for Australia, three first-choice players ruled out of T20 series vs India
In a few days' time, India and Australia are scheduled to play a three-match T20I series. The series will kick off on September 20 with the first T20I. However, just ahead of the series opener, the visiting team has dealt with a huge blow, as their three premium players have been ruled out of the series.
Australia are set to miss the services of ace pacer Mitchell Marsh and two star all-rounders, Mitchell Marsh and Marcus Stoinis, in the series, who were part of the announced squad for India.
Some media reports have confirmed that these players will not feature in the series due to their respective injuries. Starc will miss the tour due to a knee injury, while Stoinis and Marsh will miss due to a side strain and an ankle injury, respectively.
As per the report by cricket.com.au, the injuries to these three are minor, but the management doesn't want to take any risks after looking at the upcoming T20 World Cup in Australia next month. This will undoubtedly add to Australia's difficulties, as swashbuckling opener David Warner is already on leave.
Three changes to Australia's squad for India T20Is 👇
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) September 14, 2022
Starc (knee), Marsh (ankle) and Stoinis (side) have been ruled out due to injuries. Ellis, Sams and Abbott replace them 🏏 pic.twitter.com/MUofULT2mi
However, they have announced the replacement for the three, but it will be interesting to see how it goes. The Australian selection committee has picked Nathan Ellis, Daniel Sams and Sean Abbott as replacements for Starc, Marsh and Stoinis in the series.
Both Stoini and Marsh sustained the injuries during the three-match ODI series against New Zealand, while Starc's issue came into recognition after a scan on Wednesday. The three matches will be played on September 20, 23, and 25, respectively.
Mohali, Nagpur, and Hyderabad will host three matches. After the three-match T20I series against India, Australia is set to face the West Indies and England ahead of the T20 World Cup.