A fractured arm, caused while facing Pat Cummins in the nets, has resulted in Shaun Marsh being withdrawn from the Australia squad as they gear up for the semi-finals of the 2019 World Cup, with Peter Handscomb confirmed as his replacement.
“Shaun Marsh has had scans on his right forearm after being struck while practicing in the nets at training today,” Australia coach Justin Langer said ahead of the team’s final group-stage match against South Africa. “Unfortunately, the scans have revealed Shaun has suffered a fracture to his forearm which will require surgery. This is obviously shattering news for Shaun and the squad.”
Marsh didn’t have much of a role to play in Australia’s group-stage games, featuring in just two games, scoring 23 and 3, but Langer lauded him for his spirit. “Throughout this tournament, his spirit, professionalism and the way he has competed has been typically outstanding.”
🚨 JUST IN: Shaun Marsh has been ruled out of #CWC19 with a fractured forearm.
Wicket-keeper batsman Peter Handscomb has been called up as his replacement. pic.twitter.com/WhWAFotEX7
— ICC Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) July 4, 2019
Handscomb had enjoyed a good run of form in the lead up to the World Cup, but lost out on a place in the 15-member squad to make room for the incoming Steve Smith and David Warner.
Langer believed that the 28-year-old serves as a like-for-like replacement for Marsh. “Pete is a like-for-like player, in terms of batting in the middle order, and he performed very well for us during our recent tours in India and the UAE,” he said.
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Glenn Maxwell, who, unlike Marsh, has been a regular fixture in the Australian XI at the World Cup, also copped a blow to his right forearm during training, but concerns were abated after scans cleared the explosive hitter of serious damage.
“Glenn Maxwell also underwent scans after he was struck on his right forearm in the nets,” Langer said in a statement. “The scans have cleared Glenn of any serious damage and we’ll continue to monitor him over the coming days. We are hopeful he will be fit to perform for us on Saturday against South Africa.”
After Australia’s inconsequential group-stage game against South Africa, they will gear up for the semis where they are most likely to meet one of England or New Zealand.
