By: Tarish Bhatt
Australia have received a severe blow ahead of the 3rd Test in Mitchell Starc. The Aussie pacer has suffered a stress fracture in his right foot. He will fly down to Australia for rehabilitation and miss the remaining two matches.
It is a massive blow for Australia after losing the 2nd Test in Bengaluru. Starc was the standout performer for them there. He helped the Aussies in coming back into the contest with some fierce spells of fast bowling.
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“Mitchell experienced some pain in his right foot during the 2nd Test in Bangalore,” said team physiotherapist David Beakley. “It unfortunately had not subsided a few days after the Test as we had hoped.”
“We made the decision to scan his foot in Bangalore this morning and unfortunately it has revealed a stress fracture,” he added. “Subsequently, this means Mitchell will be unavailable for the remainder of the Tour of India.”
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Australia haven’t named any replacement for Starc. Pacers Pat Cummins and James Pattinson are in fray for the spot after an impressive outing in Sheffield Shield. Australia also have Jackson Bird as a reserve with touring party.
The 3rd Test between India and Australia will start March 16 at Ranchi’s JSCA Stadium.
