Brisbane November 01, 2022: Australia are sweating on the fitness of three key players ahead of their crucial ICC Men’s T20 World Cup clash against Afghanistan in Adelaide on Friday.
The reigning T20 World Cup champions moved into contention for a semi-final berth with a 42-run victory over Ireland in Brisbane on Monday, but a trio of injury niggles to key players took the gloss off the impressive triumph.
Skipper Aaron Finch hurt his hamstring while compiling his quickfire half-century, while all-rounders Tim David and Marcus Stoinis failed to take the field during Ireland’s innings as they rested their own concerns.
But it’s the hamstring issue to Finch that is of most worry to Australia, with the 35-year-old set to have scans on Tuesday to reveal the extent of the injury.
“Little hammy twinge I think,” Finch said after the win on Monday.
“I’ll get a scan tomorrow. Unfortunately, I’ve had a history with them so we’ll see how it goes.
“It doesn’t feel too bad at the moment but generally overnight they can stiffen up.
“We’ll get a scan and get the full results, but I am very hopeful (of playing against Afghanistan) but we’ll know more (Tuesday).”
If Finch does fail in his bid to recover in time to take on Afghanistan then Australia have a few decent choices to include as his replacement.
Veteran batter Steve Smith hasn’t been used so far this tournament, while young all-rounder Cameron Green is another option that could be utilised.
