James Faulkner’s participation in the World Cup remains in the balance after the all-rounder was diagnosed with a “moderate” side strain.
The 24-year-old pulled up with the injury midway through bowling his third over during Sunday’s Tri-Series final against England in Perth.
It came after he had underlined his importance to Australia’s plans for the World Cup by smashing 50 off 24 balls and taking a wicket with his first ball, a contribution which went a long way towards setting up a 112-run win for his side.
Faulkner had a scan on the injury in Melbourne on Monday evening and will travel with Australia’s squad to Adelaide on Friday, where he will continue to have treatment while his team-mates prepare for their tournament opener against England on 14 February.
The Tasmanian must now be a severe doubt for that match and, although Australia have yet to go into specifics, it must be assumed he will be given the same 21 February deadline as injured captain Michael Clarke to prove his fitness for the World Cup.
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.”
