Mitchell Johnson Ruled Out Of Sydney Test

Mitchell Johnson has been ruled out of the fourth Commonwealth Bank Test against India due to a hamstring injury he picked up during the third Test in Melbourne last week. It can be interpreted that the Australian management have taken a cautious approach ahead of the World Cup.

Mitch has had very long spells throughout the series and true to his name, he hasn’t failed his skipper. Johnson, himself, had also spoken about bowling bowling shorter spells had he made the Sydney match. He has been the only frontline Australian paceman to play the first three Tests and clocked up 122.2 overs for his 13 wickets at 35.53 but there remains confidence that he will be fit for the triangular one-day series involving India and England.

“Mitchell had some right hamstring soreness during the Boxing Day Test and we have been closely monitoring his recovery since that match but feel he has not fully recovered.” the Cricket Australia physiotherapist, Alex Kountouris, said. “As such, he will not play in the upcoming Sydney Test match. We expect him to recover in time to play a part in the upcoming tri-series against England and India.

Coach Darren Lehmann added: “Mitchell is an important part of our plans for the remainder of our summer and we want him 100% right so won’t be taking any risks with him. We believe it is best for Mitchell to take this opportunity to freshen up and get his body fully fit ahead of the tri-series.”

Another player not looking in the best shape in Shane Watson.

Shane Watson left the Australian’s training session in Sydney prematurely today with a stomach complaint, but is expected to resume training tomorrow and be available for selection in the Test XI on Tuesday.  Watson completed the fielding drills with his Australia team-mates before padding up and heading to nets. However, he did not bat bat and after chatting with Dr Peter Brukner, Kountouris and Lehmann, left the nets and returned to the team hotel.

With Johnson and Watson not confirmed to play, the Aussie squad will be tested to full strength as they take India on this Tuesday in the 4th and final test.

Comment Courtesy: cricket.au