T20 World Cup 2021: Mitchell Starc's Knee Injury Is Minor, Expected To Be Fit For Sri Lanka Match
Australian bowling spearhead Mitchell Starc sustained a blow to his knee during a practice session at the ICC Academy on Tuesday night. He was limping in pain at the time but has recovered quite well since then, and was seen in the nets ahead of their clash against Sri Lanka.
There was major concern over his fitness on Tuesday night as he was seen writhing in serious discomfort. He was able to walk off the field without any assistance, however, which seemed to be a good sign for the Aussies. Starc took part in Australia’s training session on Wednesday.
The pacer wore a compression bandage on his knee for the entirety of the session but was able to bat and bowl without much of a fuss. The medical team continues to assess his situation, as confirmed by a team spokesperson on Wednesday.
Mitchell Starc’s availability is crucial to the side as he is their primary death bowler and also the one that Aaron Finch turns to for wickets early on in the powerplay. Without him, the bowling attack does look weakened, but Kane Richardson, who was left out of Australia’s first match, can be a suitable replacement.
Ashton Agar was also excluded from the playing XI despite being in good nick. Aussie head coach Justin Langer stated that it was a tough decision but one that had to be made considering the matchups. Langer also claimed that the team will be flexible throughout the tournament, depending on the conditions on offer.
Australia’s squad for T20 World Cup:
Aaron Finch (c), Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins (vc), Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Kane Richardson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Mitchell Swepson, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa.
Travelling reserves: Dan Christian, Nathan Ellis, Daniel Sams.
