AUS vs SA: Nathan Ellis, Joel Davies ruled out of third ODI in Potchefstroom

Australia have suffered double injury blows ahead of the third and final ODI against South Africa as Nathan Ellis has been ruled out with a side strain. Apart from him, Joel Davies also suffered a hamstring strain while fielding as a substitute in the second ODI in Johannesburg.

Nathan Ellis’ loss will be a major blow to Australia, having been in rich form in recent times. He was the highest wicket taker of the three-match series against Zimbabwe with nine scalps from three innings. He had also taken three wickets from two innings in the series so far. 

The right-arm speedster suffered a left-side strain after bowling four overs during the second ODI in Johannesburg and didn’t return to complete his spell after four overs.

In his absence, South Africa posted a humongous score of 365/9 courtesy of centuries from Temba Bavuma and David Miller. Ellis will fly back home for further assessments and undergo rehabilitation, targeting a return in the home ODI series against England that starts on November 13.

His injury leaves Australia with only four fit fast bowlers for the third ODI in Potchefstroom on Wednesday, with regular captain Pat Cummins likely to return after missing the first two matches.

South Africa leading 2-0 in the series

Earlier, Billy Stanlake also suffered a side strain in the second ODI in Zimbabwe. Meanwhile, Davies will also return home after not featuring in a single game on the tour, being a part of the team as the second specialist spinner.

He will also undergo a rehab period before returning to play domestic cricket for New South Wales. There have been no changes made in the squad for the final ODI. South Africa have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series, following a 32-run victory in the second match.