Xtra Time Web Desk: Australia faced another setback ahead of the all important 2nd T20I at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Sunday. Left arm fast bowler Mitchell Starc has withdrawn himself from the remainder of the T20 series citing personal reasons. He left the Australian team bubble having been informed about a family illness.
“There is nothing in the world more important than family and in this case Mitch is no exception,” said Justin Langer, the Australian men’s team Head Coach.
“We will give Mitch all the time he needs and welcome him back into the squad with open arms whenever he feels the time is right for him and his family.”
It’s unclear when Starc will re-join the Australian team for the first Vodafone Test, which starts December 17 in Adelaide.
Starc’s withdrawal is the latest change to Australia’s ODI and T20 squad in the past week. David Warner and Ashton Agar have been ruled out with injury, Pat Cummins was given a short break to prepare for the Test summer while Marcus Stoinis has remained with the squad despite suffering a side injury.
D’Arcy Short, Mitch Swepson and Nathan Lyon have been added the squad, but there will be no replacement for Starc given Andrew Tye and Daniel Sams are already in the squad.