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Australia have suffered two more injury setbacks on their South Africa tour, with Nathan Ellis and Joel Davies ruled out of the third and final ODI. Ellis has been diagnosed with a side strain, while Davies picked up a hamstring injury during the second ODI at the Wanderers.
The injuries add to Australia's growing list of fitness concerns during the tour. Billy Stanlake suffered a side strain during the ODI series against Zimbabwe, while Josh Inglis returned home after fracturing his finger in the first ODI against South Africa.
Nathan Ellis ruled out of South Africa ODI with side strain, Joel Davies leaves Australia tour
Nathan Ellis bowled only four overs in the second ODI after leaving the field during South Africa's innings. He has now been confirmed to have suffered a left side strain, ruling him out of Australia's final ODI in Potchefstroom on September 30.
The right-arm quick has taken 22 wickets in ODIs in 2026 at an average of 17.22, putting him among the leading wicket-takers in the format this year.
In his absence, Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc could return to Australia's playing XI for the final ODI. The selectors could also consider Josh Hazlewood, who has already featured in the opening two matches.
Davies, who was used as a substitute fielder, strained his right hamstring while fielding during Australia's 32-run defeat. The young all-rounder had travelled through the Zimbabwe and South Africa ODIs without getting an opportunity to make his international debut.
Australia have lost both games of the series so far, with South Africa winning the first ODI by 67 runs before recording a 32-run victory in the second.
Jack Edwards being monitored
Australia are also keeping an eye on Jack Edwards, who claimed his maiden five-wicket haul in the second ODI. The all-rounder has a hamstring concern but travelled with the squad to Potchefstroom.
If Edwards is unavailable, Australia could be left with only 12 fit players for the final ODI. The team has also been joined by Test players arriving in South Africa ahead of a two-day tour match at JB Marks Oval.
Edwards was brought into the white-ball group at short notice after travelling back from India, where he had been preparing for an Australia A assignment. He was called up as cover for Cameron Green, who has not bowled on the tour because of a shoulder issue.
Cameron Green facing shoulder issues
Green's shoulder remains another concern for Australia. Matthew Renshaw explained that the all-rounder has been dealing with the issue and is currently unable to generate the required bowling action.
Renshaw said Green has still made a useful contribution to the team despite the problem and should be able to resume bowling once his shoulder improves.
Australia have also used the series to develop a relatively inexperienced batting group following the departures of several established players. Renshaw said the matches against South Africa have provided valuable exposure to conditions Australia could encounter during next year's World Cup title defence.
The third ODI will be played at JB Marks Oval in Potchefstroom on September 30, with South Africa already holding an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series.
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