Aussies have concerns as Head injured in loss to Proteas

Australian star Travis Head has suffered a fractured hand in their hammering at the hands of South Africa, with his ICC Cricket World Cup campaign now in grave danger.

Head, who is a key cog of the Australian ODI team at the top of the order, was hit by a delivery from Proteas’ Gerard Coetzee and was forced to retire hurt for 17.

Australian coach Andrew McDonald confirmed Head’s injury after the match, adding to his woes after his bowling attack gave up 5-416 in the Centurion clash.

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In response the Aussies could only muster up 252 in response, which means the Proteas draw level 2-2 in the best of five series, which both teams are using as a warmup for the World Cup.

The Aussies will swing several changes to this team, prior to the India one-day showcase event, including recalling Steve Smith, Patrick Cummins and Mitchell Starc, however they would have expected a stronger showing here.

The Head issue will be the Aussies first concern, with the South Australian set to undergo scans in South Africa on Saturday, just three weeks out from the start of the 50 over World Cup.

Should Head be unavailable for the beginning of the World Cup, it might pave the way for Mitch Marsh to take his position, considering Marsh’s previous successful performances opening the batting.

Furthermore, with Cameron Green expected to make a comeback from concussion for the fifth ODI, Australia might have another alternative.

In the event that Head is deemed unfit for the entirety of the World Cup, the Australian selectors might reconsider bringing Marnus Labuschagne into the squad. Labuschagne, who has been in tremendous form, was previously left out of the provisional 15-player squad for the tour.

Australia has until September 28 to make changes to their squad. Post this deadline, they would require the International Cricket Council (ICC) approval for any modifications.

“The nature of what time frame that (injury) lends itself to will be assessed tomorrow,” McDonald said.

The Aussies will be particularly concerned with the form of Adam Zampa, who went for 113 from his 10 overs, and will be their no.1 spin option in India, where the conditions are expected to be favourable.

For South Africa, their performance was all about Heinrich Klaasen, who entered their innings at 3-120 and completely dismantling the Australian bowling attack with 174 off just 83 balls.

The fifth and deciding one-day clash between Australia and South Africa begins from 6pm AEST on Sunday.

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