Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21: James Pattinson to miss Sydney Test due to bruised ribs

Australia is locking horns against India in a four-Test series for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, as they clash in the third Test, in Sydney, from Thursday. Meanwhile, the host has a fresh injury concern, with pacer James Pattinson being sidelined due to broken ribs.

Team Newsable

Sydney NSW, First Published Jan 4, 2021, 5:58 PM IST

Australia faces a challenging task ahead as it takes on India in the third of the four-Test series for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), from Thursday. The series is currently locked at 1-1.

Although the return of prolific opener, David Warner, from his groin injury that led him to miss the opening two Tests has boosted the host, it has a fresh injury concern. Pacer James Pattinson has unfortunately been ruled out of the Sydney Test after he bruised his ribs at a fall in his home.

Meanwhile, Cricket Australia (CA) has decided against having a replacement for him, as he is likely to get fit for the final Brisbane Test. "Fast bowler James Pattinson has been ruled out of our Australian squad for the third #AUSvIND Vodafone Test with bruised ribs. He will not be replaced in the squad and will be assessed further ahead of the Brisbane Test match," said CA in a statement.

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As for the third Test, Sean Abbott and Michael Neser are the only two men in contention to take up his spot. Pattinson did not feature in the playing XI of the opening two Tests, while he was also unlikely for Sydney. However, he did feature in the three-day warm-up clash, where he claimed three wickets. As of now, Pattinson has claimed 81 Test wickets in 21 games at an average of 26.3, including four five-fors.

Australia's Test squad: Tim Paine (c), Sean Abbott, Pat Cummins, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Moises Henriques, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, James Pattinson (misses third Test), Will Pucovski, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, Matthew Wade and David Warner.

Last Updated Jan 4, 2021, 5:58 PM IST