Australia lose James Faulkner for rest of New Zealand ODI series
Wednesday 3 February 2016 12:35, UK
Australia all-rounder James Faulkner will miss the remaining two one-day internationals against New Zealand after injuring his right hamstring in Wednesday's series opener in Auckland.
Marcus Stoinis, who made his only ODI appearance against England in September, will replace Faulkner whose injury comes six weeks before Australia begin their Twenty20 World Cup campaign in India.
"James reported increased stiffness in his right hamstring during the first innings and found it difficult running during our batting innings," Cricket Australia's sports science and sport medicine manager Alex Kountouris said.
"Unfortunately, with the short turnaround between games we do not believe he will recover in time to take any further part in the series.
"As a result, he will return to Melbourne to have scans and start rehabilitation. We are hopeful this is only a low grade injury but will know more in the coming days."
Tasmanian Faulkner, 25, was Australia's second-highest scorer with 36 runs as they were bowled out for just 148 in a 159-run defeat to the Black Caps at Eden Park.
Victorian Stoinis could now be in contention for a start as the series for the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy continues in Wellington on Saturday before finishing in Hamilton on Monday.
National selector Rod Marsh said: "It's unfortunate that James has suffered this injury but the situation presents another good opportunity for Marcus Stoinis.
"He is a promising young all-rounder who had a taste of international cricket last winter in England, and hopefully this call-up will continue with his development."
