John Hastings to miss out on early stages of One-Day Cup

In his attempt to make a comeback into competitive cricket, Australian International and a key member of Victoria Bushrangers, John Hastings is scheduled to miss out on the early stages of the One-Day Cup. Hastings suffered a fresh injury on Tuesday, September 26.

Prior to the back injury, he picked up an ankle injury back in August while playing for Worcestershire. His comeback from the ankle injury has been delayed further as he injured his back while bowling in the nets last week in Melbourne. Victoria Bushrangers have named uncapped teenager Xavier Crone as the replacement.

“John, unfortunately, injured his back while bowling during training in the MCG nets last Friday. He had only recently returned from an ankle injury so naturally this a slight setback for him,” stated the team physio of Victoria Bushrangers, Nick Adcock according to Cricbuzz. He further added that the Victorian veteran is expected to return during the second half of the tournament.

Hastings last featured in the Champions Trophy against New Zealand

“We’ll manage his treatment over the next couple of weeks and remain hopeful he’ll be able to return to the One-Day Cup squad and make a big impact in the matches in Sydney,” remarked Adcock.

John Hastings, being the second highest wicket-taker for Australians in 2016, was also part of the Kangaroos’ Champions Trophy campaign. The 31-year old resumed training after recovering from his ankle injury after receiving the fully-fit tag during the preseason camp in Queensland. He was also a part of the side’s last pre-season practice match.

In the 29 ODIs he has played for Australia so far, he has already clinched 42 wickets at an economy of a fraction over 5. His best figures of 6/46 came against Sri Lanka back in 2012 at Dambulla. “The Duke” has represented Australia in only 9 T20Is and picked up only 6 wickets. The last time he donned the colors for Australia was against New Zealand in the Champions Trophy back in June.