James Faulkner is set to miss Australia’s World Cup opener against England after scans revealed he suffered a side strain during Sunday’s Tri-Series final.
The all-rounder sustained the problem while bowling at the WACA Ground in Perth two days ago and will now receive “intensive treatment” for the next fortnight.
And that time frame is likely to rule out Faulkner when Australia meet England again, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on February 14.
Cricket Australia physiotherapist Alex Kountouris said: “Scans on James Faulkner’s injured side have confirmed a moderate grade abdominal muscle strain which is consistent with a ‘typical’ fast-bowing side strain injury.
“He will receive intensive treatment for the next two weeks before we can determine when he can return to batting and bowling.”
Australia are already without Michael Clarke for their opener as the skipper attempts to return to full fitness from a hamstring injury in time for their second game against Bangladesh.
