Australia's Peter Siddle ruled out of second Test against South Africa
Tuesday 8 November 2016 07:32, UK
Peter Siddle has been ruled out of Australia's second Test against South Africa in Hobart with a lower back injury.
The 31-year-old seamer underwent scans after the 177-run loss in Perth on Monday, which Cricket Australia confirmed show "low grade bone oedema" around an old stress fracture.
Siddle's call-up was his first in nine months having been sidelined with back problems, and Joe Mennie is now likely to debut in place of the fast bowler on Saturday.
"We are hopeful that this will resolve relatively quickly, but have withdrawn him from the squad for the second Test match in Hobart," team physiotherapist David Beakley said.
"We will monitor his recovery and have a better idea of when he will return to play in the next week or so."
Meanwhile, Australia have added former wicket-keeper Brad Haddin and fast bowler Ryan Harris to their coaching set-up for the one-day series against New Zealand, which begins on January 30.
The recently-retired pair will join coach Darren Lehmann on the tour with current assistants Graeme Hick and David Saker both heading to India early to prepare for Australia's February Test tour there.
"It's a fantastic opportunity for us to have ex-players of the calibre of Brad and Ryan on board for this tour and continue their involvement in Australian cricket," Lehmann said.
"Both these guys have worked hard on their coaching since leaving the game and thoroughly deserve their opportunity.
"They will bring a great insight to the team and their appointment highlights some of the depth we have in Australia in the coaching pathway system."
