Mitchell Starc ruled out of remaining Tests due to stress fracture; sent back to Australia

New Delhi: Australian fast-bowling all-rounder Mitchell Starc has been ruled out of the remaining two matches of the Test series against India after suffereing a foot fracture. The news is a big blow for the Aussies who are presently level 1-1 in the series after the conclusion of first two matches.

“Mitchell experienced some pain in his right foot during the second Test in Bangalore which unfortunately had not subsided a few days after the Test as we had hoped,” said team physiotherapist David Beakley.

“We made the decision to scan his foot in Bangalore this morning and unfortunately it has revealed a stress fracture.

READ: India squad for remaining two Tests against Australia

“Subsequently, this means Mitchell will be unavailable for the remainder of the Qantas Tour of India and will return home to Australia to start his rehabilitation.”

The 27-year-old was one of the most important players for the tourists in their 333-run victory over the hosts in first Test in Pune, with his quick-fire 61 and dismissal of Indian skipper Virat Kohli on duck.

After Mitchell Marsh's exit, Australia will be rocked to lose their pace spearhead Starc, who opted against playing in the forthcoming Indian Premier League Season 10 to remain fit for national duty.

So far, no replacement has been named for Starc, but Tasmania’s Jackson Bird – who is the reserve fast bowler in the squad – will likely replace him for Ranchi Test.

Remaining fixtures:

March 16 – 20: Third Test, JSCA International Stadium Complex, Ranchi

March 25-29 - Fourth Test, Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala