Calf strain has sidelined Josh Inglis from the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Series
Australia may be forced to call up a spare batter ahead of the New Year’s Test in Sydney against India, after Josh Inglis was ruled out of the series with a low-grade calf strain.
Inglis sustained the injury while serving as a substitute during the ongoing Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.
The 29-year-old was the only spare batter left in the squad this week, following the release of all-rounder Beau Webster to play in the Big Bash League.
Notably, Inglis had played two BBL matches for the Perth Scorchers between the third and fourth Tests of the series before rejoining the national team.
Inglis’s injury could open the door for Nathan McSweeney to return to the squad, after he was omitted in favor of Sam Konstas ahead of this Test.
McSweeney’s ability to bat across the order could give him a chance to feature in Sydney, should Australia opt for an additional batter rather than an all-rounder like Mitchell Marsh.
However, this remains unlikely, considering fitness concerns and the increased workloads on Mitchell Starc, who struggled with back issues during Day 3 of the MCG Test.
Australia also has Sean Abbott and Jhye Richardson in the squad as fast bowling cover.
Meanwhile, Inglis faces a race against time to be fit for Australia’s two-Test series in Sri Lanka, where his spin expertise would be a valuable asset.
Australia is set to hold a pre-tour camp in the UAE ahead of the first Test in Galle on January 29.
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