Australia have suffered another injury setback ahead of next week’s Test series against Bangladesh after fast bowler Michael Neser sustained a calf injury during training.
Neser injured his right calf while training with the national squad in Brisbane and will miss the Top End series, which starts next Thursday. The setback comes only a day after wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis left a training session with back spasms, giving Australia a second injury concern in as many days.
Cricket Australia expects Neser to spend several weeks recovering, although the injury should not affect his availability for Australia’s three-Test tour of South Africa later this year.
The experienced seamer had hoped to force his way into Australia’s plans during a demanding schedule that could include 21 Tests in 12 months. He missed selection in the 13-man squad for the Bangladesh series but remained in contention as a reserve option.
Australia resumed red-ball preparations this week after not playing Test cricket since the Sydney Test in January.
Inglis, who captained Australia’s white-ball sides during the recent tours of Pakistan and Bangladesh, continues to recover from back spasms. Team officials remain hopeful he will return to training within the next few days.
The match simulation in Brisbane offered encouraging signs elsewhere. Marnus Labuschagne responded to recent calls for runs by scoring 62 before retiring, while opener Jake Weatherald made 52.
Nathan Lyon also impressed in his return from the hamstring injury he suffered during the Adelaide Test in December, claiming three wickets in the practice match.
Captain Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Scott Boland each completed 10 overs as Australia’s pace attack built fitness before the Bangladesh series.
Travis Head is expected to join the match simulation on Tuesday, while spinner Matt Kuhnemann also featured as Australia continued preparations for a busy Test calendar.
