Australia will be without fast bowler Nathan Ellis and left-arm spinner Joel Davies for the third and final ODI against South Africa after both players suffered injuries on tour.
Ellis has been ruled out with a left side strain sustained during the second ODI in Johannesburg. He bowled four overs before leaving the field and did not return to complete his spell. The injury compounds Australia’s problems after South Africa amassed 365 to win the match and take an unassailable 2-0 series lead.
Ellis, who had been Australia’s standout bowler during the tour of Zimbabwe and South Africa, will return home for further assessment and rehabilitation. He is hopeful of recovering in time for Australia’s home ODI series against England, beginning November 13.
He is the second Australian fast bowler to suffer a side strain on the tour, following Billy Stanlake’s injury during the second ODI in Zimbabwe.
Davies, meanwhile, picked up a hamstring strain while fielding as a substitute in Johannesburg. The spinner did not feature in any match on the tour and will return to Australia to begin his rehabilitation before resuming domestic cricket with New South Wales.
Australia has not called up replacements for either player. Pat Cummins is expected to return for Wednesday’s final ODI in Potchefstroom, while Mitchell Starc could also feature after being rested in Johannesburg. Josh Hazlewood may be given a break after playing the first two matches, with Xavier Bartlett likely to retain his place.
There is also no decision yet on Josh Inglis’ return for the Test series against South Africa, beginning October 9, after he fractured a finger in the opening ODI.
Published on Sep 29, 2026