Nathan Ellis Ruled Out of Final ODI Against South Africa Due to Side Strain

 

Australia have suffered another injury setback in their ODI series against South Africa, with fast bowler Nathan Ellis ruled out of the third and final match due to a side strain.
Ellis picked up the injury during the second ODI in Johannesburg. The right-arm pacer was forced to leave the field after bowling only four overs and did not return to complete his spell. He will now miss the series finale as Australia manage his recovery.

The injury comes at a difficult time for the visitors, who have already lost the three-match series after South Africa secured victories in the opening two games. The hosts sealed the series with a 32-run win in the second ODI, despite a strong start from Australia’s opening pair.

Australia were already without wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis, who was ruled out of the remaining matches after suffering a fracture to his right index finger in the first ODI. With Ellis now unavailable as well, the Australian squad faces further pressure ahead of the final contest.

Ellis had entered the South Africa tour in good form after playing an important role in Australia’s recent ODI series win over Zimbabwe. His ability to bowl effectively in the middle overs and at the death had added depth to Australia’s pace unit.

South Africa, meanwhile, will head into the final ODI with confidence after an impressive series-clinching performance. Temba Bavuma and David Miller scored centuries in the second match, helping the Proteas post a commanding total before their bowlers held off Australia’s chase.

The final ODI will now give Australia an opportunity to avoid a series whitewash, while South Africa will look to finish the home series with a clean sweep.