Is Inglis Out of the NZ Tour Due to Calf Strain? Carey Steps In!

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Josh Inglis has a calf strain, ruling him out of the NZ tour.
- Alex Carey replaces him in the squad.
- The T20I series kicks off on October 1.
- This series is vital for preparation for the T20 World Cup.
- Four players are sidelined from the series due to various reasons.
Melbourne, Sep 19 (NationPress) Australia’s wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis has been sidelined for the upcoming three-match T20I tour of New Zealand due to a calf injury.
Inglis reported discomfort in his right calf following a running session in Perth earlier this week. Subsequent scans confirmed he would miss the series set to unfold in Mount Maunganui.
In his absence, Alex Carey has been called up to join the Australian T20 squad for the series against New Zealand, which kicks off on October 1.
This isn't Carey’s first experience with calf issues; he previously suffered an injury while sub-fielding during last year’s Boxing Day Test against India, which kept him out for the remainder of the BBL season prior to his Test debut against Sri Lanka in late January.
Inglis plays a crucial role in Australia’s white-ball teams, and his absence necessitates a reassessment for the red-ball format, especially since he is likely to support Carey during the home Ashes series. He is anticipated to return for the ODI series against India, commencing in Perth on October 19.
Inglis becomes the fourth Australian player to withdraw from the series. Pat Cummins was ruled out due to lumbar bone stress, Cameron Green remained home for Sheffield Shield cricket as part of his Ashes preparation, and Nathan Ellis is unavailable due to the impending birth of his first child.
The T20I series will kick off on October 1, with all matches scheduled at Bay Oval.
This series serves as a vital preparation phase for both teams ahead of next year’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup to be hosted in India and Sri Lanka.
Additionally, this contest will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the inaugural Men’s T20I match played between Australia and New Zealand back in 2005 at Eden Park, Auckland.
Australia’s T20I squad vs New Zealand
Mitchell Marsh (c), Travis Head, Alex Carey, Matthew Short, Mitchell Owen, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Tim David, Sean Abbott, Ben Dwarshuis, Xavier Bartlett, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood, Matt Kuhnemann