The reigning world champions Australia were dealt a huge blow in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 on Friday after their left-arm fast bowler Doug Bollinger was sent back to Australia as he was made to sit out due to a left ankle injury.
Doug Bollinger
Bollinger hasn’t played any game since February 13 when he played the first warm-up match against India. The left-armer went for 29 from his six overs in that game.
Despite the claims made by skipper Ricky Ponting that Dougie was recovering fast from a slight ankle niggle ahead of the opening match against Zimbabwe, the fast bowler couldn’t find himself a place in the playing eleven and he had to meet the same fate on Friday when he was made to sit out of the New Zealand clash as he failed to recover from the injury.
Doug Bollinger. Courtesy: Getty Images
Australian team physiotherapist, Alex Kountouris confirmed that the left-armer was facing severe pain when he landed in the South Asia.
Kountouris said, “Unfortunately the pain is now significantly affecting his ability to bowl and he will not be playing any further part in the tournament. Doug will now return to Australia and seek specialist opinion to determine the best course of management for the injury.”
Australian National Selection Panel is yet to announce a replacement for Doug Bollinger.
