Mitchell Starc likely to be ruled out of first Test against India

Mitchell Starc (Source: AP Newsroom)

What comes on expected lines, Australia's spearhead Mitchell Starc has been ruled out of the first game of their upcoming Test series against India with a finger injury that kept him out of action against South Africa in the last match.

Starc sustained an injury on his middle finger which caused him some trouble while bowling in the second Test against the Proteas as his tendon was separated from the bone.

The left-armer has been a prime weapon for the Aussies as he has wreaked havoc with his reverse swing in the Asian conditions previously during the Test tours in Pakistan and Sri Lanka, averaging below 30.

Although, in all probability, he would be fit and available to participate in the second Test that would be played in Delhi from 17th February. 

"That's probably likely (I will miss the first Test). We'll see how we're placed at the end of the month," Starc said.

He did mention that if he is picked, he could be a really useful asset for his side creating footmarks for spinners especially Nathan Lyon helping him to generate spin from the rough.

"Hopefully I am there for the second Test if they want to play me. Maybe I can make some footmarks for Gazza (Lyon) or something. We'll see how the finger is."

Along with Starc, all-rounder, Cameron Green will also be on the bench as he too is yet to recover from his thumb injury.

In Starc's place, Josh Hazlewood is likely to be slotted in with skipper Pat Cummins at the forefront, managing the pace bowling department.

Also Read: Jasprit Bumrah ruled out of ODI series against Sri Lanka