Australia faces a tough challenge in the final One-Day International (ODI) against South Africa after losing two key players to injuries. Fast bowler Nathan Ellis was forced out with a side strain during the second ODI, while left-arm spinner Joel Davies will return home due to a hamstring injury.
Ellis, who has been a standout performer on tour, sustained his injury while bowling four overs in Johannesburg. South Africa capitalized on his absence to score 365 runs and win the series 2-0. Ellis will now fly back to Australia for treatment and aim to recover in time for the upcoming home series against England.
Davies picked up his injury while fielding as a substitute in the same match. He did not play any matches during the tour and will return home for rehabilitation before resuming domestic cricket with New South Wales.
Australia is left with only four fit fast bowlers for the final ODI: Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Xavier Bartlett. Cummins and Starc are expected to return after missing earlier matches, while Hazlewood may be rested following his involvement in both games.
Meanwhile, there is no update on whether wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis will join the Test series against South Africa after breaking his finger during the opening ODI.
In other developments, changes have been made to the Australia A squad touring India. Brendan Doggett, Fergus O’Neill, and Campbell Kellaway are returning home, while Sam Harper, Jhye Richardson, and Liam Hatcher will play in the next unofficial Test against India A. Riley Meredith and Will Sutherland have joined the one-day squad, replacing Jack Edwards and Aaron Hardie, who is out with a minor knee injury.