Xtra Time Web Desk: Defending champions Australia were dealt with huge blow before arriving to India for three match T20I series starting from September 20 in Mohali. Left arm quick Mitch Starc , Mitch Marsh and Marcus Stoinis have been ruled out of the tour, with Nathan Ellis, Daniel Sams and Sean Abbott added to the squad.
Starc has a problem with his knee, Marsh has an ankle injury while Stoinis suffered a side strain during the recently concluded series against New Zealand at home. Opener David Warner had already been rested for the tour.
The injuries to the trio are minor, but with the travel involved for three games in three separate cities in six days in India, Australia has taken a cautious approach with their T20 World Cup campaign due to start on October 22 when they face New Zealand at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
The absence of Stoinis will see Tim David making his Australian debut on the tour as a middle-order finisher. Steve Smith can move back to No 3 slot in batting order with allrounder Cameron Green coming into the side. Josh Inglis is likely to open the batting with captain Aaron Finch.
The three match T20I series will kickstart from Mohali on September 2.