Uncapped Oz quick Pattinson out of India tour with back stress fractures

SYDNEY - Uncapped Australian fast bowler James Pattinson will return back home from the tour of India after being diagnosed with stress fractures in his back.

Pattinson, called into the squad after Josh Hazlewood was ruled out with the same problem, complained of discomfort after training in the lead-up to the Bangalore Test.

He will be replaced in the squad by another Bushranger, John Hastings.

“During the past week, James has complained of some back stiffness during preparation for the second Test,” The Sydney Morning Herald quoted physio Kevin Sims, as saying.

“James’ symptoms were consistent with a low back bone stress injury and scans have confirmed the early stages of a low back stress fracture. He has therefore been withdrawn from the one-day squad as he will require a period of rest from bowling,” he said.

“He will be closely monitored by Victorian and Cricket Australia medical staff to determine his return to cricket,” Kevin said.

Pattinson will now undergo the rest and recuperation process that has virtually become a right of passage for all young pace bowlers. (ANI)