Will Injuries Disrupt Australia's ODI Squad Against South Africa?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Australia's ODI squad faces unexpected changes due to injuries. Key players, including Matt Short, Lance Morris, and Mitch Owen, will miss the series against South Africa. Discover how these changes might affect the team's dynamics and performance as they prepare for their upcoming matches.
Key Takeaways
- Injuries have impacted Australia's ODI squad significantly.
- Key players are sidelined, affecting team strategy.
- Replacements have been called up to fill the gaps.
- Upcoming matches will test the squad's depth and resilience.
- Owen's concussion highlights the importance of player safety.
New Delhi, Aug 14 (NationPress) Australia faces a significant setback as three of their vital players are sidelined for the upcoming three-match ODI series versus South Africa, starting in Cairns on August 19. Matt Short and Lance Morris have both been ruled out due to injuries, while Mitch Owen's much-anticipated ODI debut will have to wait, as the promising player has been diagnosed with concussion and will miss the remainder of the series.
Short is still recovering from a side injury sustained during a training session in the recent white-ball series against the West Indies, while Morris reported back soreness and has returned to Perth for further evaluation.
Owen suffered a concussion during the second T20 match in Darwin after top-edging a delivery from Kagiso Rabada into his helmet. Although he passed the on-field assessment, he later exhibited delayed concussion symptoms. According to Cricket Australia's concussion protocols, Owen must now be sidelined for at least 12 days.
Following these injury challenges, Australia has brought in Matthew Kuhnemann and Aaron Hardie as replacements. Both players are already in Queensland as part of the squad participating in the T20I series, which is heading towards a decisive third match this Saturday.
Wicketkeeper Josh Inglis, who missed the second T20 due to flu-like symptoms, will remain with the team.
The opening match of the ODI series is scheduled for Cairns, with the series moving to Mackay for the final two matches on August 22 and 24.
Australia ODI squad: Mitchell Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Alex Carey, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Adam Zampa
Point of View
It's evident that injuries can dramatically affect team performance. Australia's depth will be tested as they navigate this challenging situation. The resilience and adaptability of the squad will be crucial as they face South Africa.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the injured players in Australia's ODI squad?
Matt Short, Lance Morris, and Mitch Owen are the key players sidelined due to injuries.
When does the ODI series against South Africa start?
The ODI series against South Africa commences on August 19 in Cairns.
What replacements have been made for the injured players?
Matthew Kuhnemann and Aaron Hardie have been drafted in as replacements.
Why is Mitch Owen unable to play in the series?
Mitch Owen is ruled out due to a concussion sustained during a T20 match.
Where will the ODI matches be played?
The first match will be held in Cairns, and the final two matches will take place in Mackay.
