spot_img

Australia vs India: James Pattinson ruled out for third test in Sydney

Pacer James Pattinson was ruled out of the Australian squad for the upcoming Test match against India as he bruised his ribs after a fall at home. Cricket Australia confirmed this through a statement on Monday. They also mentioned that Pattinson will not be replaced in the squad as he will be assessed again prior to the 4th Test match in Brisbane.

Strategy-wise this doesn’t change a lot for the home team since Pattinson was more of a back-up to their incredible pace attack featuring Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood. In fact, the 30-year-old fast bowler did not play in the first two matches of the ongoing series, and was quite possibly not going to be in the playing XI of the third test as well. Additionally, the team also include pacers like Sean Abbott and Michael Neser as pace options.

Pattinson last played against India in a tour match, which was the lead-up to the opening Test of the series. He managed to pick three wickets in that match. Overall, Pattinson has taken a total of 81 wickets in the 21 matches he has played for Australia at an average of 26.33.

Talking about the series itself, the third test will take place in Sydney on January 7, despite a recent outbreak of Covid-19 in the city. This match might also see Will Pucovski in action, along with David Warner, who is recovering from a groin injury.

The series is currently set up for grand finish as it is levelled up at 1-1. The hosts won the opening Test in Adelaide by eight wickets, while the visitors equaled the stakes with an eight-wicket win in Melbourne. India needs to avoid defeat to retain the Border Gavaskar trophy.

Related Articles

Latest Articles