Injuries hammer Aussie squad
26/10/2009 9:18 PM
James Hopes will miss Australia's second One Day International clash with India in Nagpur on Wednesday night, while bowlers Brett Lee and Mitchell Johnson are also in doubt.
All-rounder Hopes bowled just two overs in Australia's thrilling four-run victory over India in the first ODI in Vadodara on Sunday night, with team physiotherapist Kevin Sims confirming the injury on Monday afternoon.
He will certainly miss the Nagpur match and could also be in doubt for Saturday's match in Delhi.
Ben Hilfenhaus is one candidate to replace the 31-year-old, although selectors may opt to bring Shaun Marsh in to open alongside Tim Paine, dropping Shane Watson down the order to fulfil the all-rounder duties.
But while Hopes' loss can be covered, the Aussies may struggle to replace spearheads Johnson and Lee as well, after the pair had respective ankle and elbow problems assessed.
"James Hopes, Brett Lee and Mitchell Johnson all underwent scans in Baroda this morning," said Sims.
"James has suffered a minor right hamstring strain. He will therefore be unavailable for the next game however is expected to be available for the latter games of this series."
"Brett Lee has a mild right elbow strain and will continue to be treated and assessed prior to the next game."
"Mitchell Johnson suffered an inversion strain of his left ankle," Sims added after Johnson was forced from the field to have treatment during the game.
"He will now receive treatment and as with Brett, it will depend on how he responds to treatment over the next two days before a decision is made on his availability for the second game of the series."