Overview
- Cricket Australia confirmed on Wednesday that Neser strained his right calf while training in Brisbane and will be unable to train or play for several weeks.
- Neser impressed in the recent Ashes with 15 wickets in three Tests, which is why his loss is seen as a meaningful hit to Australia’s short-term seam depth.
- No formal replacement has been named and South Australia quick Brendan Doggett remains a leading candidate to cover the standby role if required.
- Wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis suffered back spasms in a practice match but coach Andrew McDonald said he is likely to be available for selection.
- With back-to-back assignments in Bangladesh, South Africa and then India on the calendar, selectors must manage workloads and rely more on the senior pace quartet and fringe options while Neser targets a return for the South Africa tour.