Australia wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis has been ruled out of the remaining ODIs against South Africa after sustaining a fractured right index finger. Inglis has returned to Perth for medical assessment, leaving his availability for the first Test in Durban on October 9 in doubt.
The injury occurred during the opening match of the series in Durban while Inglis was keeping to Mitchell Starc. South Africa currently leads the three-match series 1-0.
Alex Carey will take over wicketkeeping duties for the remaining matches in Johannesburg and Potchefstroom. Cricket Australia confirmed that no replacement player will be added to the ODI squad following Inglis’ departure.
“The West Australian will return home for scans with his availability for the three-match Test series subject to further assessment and progress,” a Cricket Australia spokesperson said.
Analysis of the injury suggests the 12-day window before the Test series opener presents a narrow recovery period, as a fractured finger typically requires two to four weeks for skeletal stability. The decision not to name an ODI replacement indicates reliance on the existing squad depth for the final two white-ball fixtures.
Australia captain Mitchell Marsh commented on the team’s standing following the first ODI defeat. “Pretty disappointed. Like I said, outplayed us. Getting 100 of the last ten overs. We came close, but we fell well short tonight,” Marsh said.
The second ODI takes place today in Johannesburg, with Australia needing a victory to keep the series alive. Carey is expected to occupy the dual role of middle-order batter and wicketkeeper for the remainder of the tour’s white-ball leg.
