Durban: Star Australia all-rounder Glenn Maxwell is battling a fresh injury just weeks out from the start of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup after he hurt his ankle during a training session here.
Maxwell aggravated his ankle at training ahead of Australia's T20I series against South Africa on Wednesday and will now fly home to be alongside his wife as they await the birth of their first child.
While Maxwell is expected to recover from the ankle concern in time for Australia's World Cup campaign, national selector Tony Dodemaide said no risks would be taken with the 34-year-old given his injury history that includes the freak leg injury he picked up at a friend’s party late last year, the ICC reported.
Dodemaide is confident Maxwell will return to national colours during Australia’s ODI series against India at the end of next month and be fully fit for the World Cup.
"We will monitor Glenn's recovery with a view to him being available for the three-match ODI series in India in advance of the World Cup," Dodemaide said.
Maxwell's absence opens the door for Matthew Wade to earn a recall to Australia's side, with the veteran receiving a call-up for the series against South Africa and could provide another wicket-keeping option alongside Josh Inglis.
Up to seven first choice players are now missing the T20I portion of Australia’s tour of South Africa, with Maxwell joining Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Cameron Green and David Warner on the sidelines.
Australia’s first match against South Africa is in Duban on Wednesday.
Australia T20 squad to face South Africa: Mitchell Marsh (c), Sean Abbott, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Matt Short, Marcus Stoinis, Ashton Turner, Matthew Wade, Adam Zampa. (UNI)
