Injured Ryan Harris most likely to miss 2011 World Cup

MELBOURNE - Australian fast bowler Ryan Harris, who suffered a stress fracture in his left ankle, is all set to miss the World Cup after coach Tim Nielsen said he will be out for eight weeks.

The 31-year-old fast bowler pulled up during his run-up midway through the third day of the fourth Ashes Test at the MCG and immediately left the field to receive treatment on his left ankle.

Nielsen has confirmed via his Twitter account that Harris is set for a lengthy absence, News.com.au reports.

“The week has turned out to be a shocker..cricket obvious, but feel very sorry for R Harris…stress fracture of tibia and out for 8 weeks,” Nielsen wrote.

Australia’s first match of the World Cup against Zimbabwe in India is on February 21, just under eight weeks away.

Australian team doctor Trefor James said on Tuesday Harris would probably require surgery.

“Ryan Harris developed ankle pain during England’s first innings and scans have revealed that he a stress fracture of his left ankle,” James said.

“Ryan is likely to require surgery and will consult a specialist in the next 24 hours,” he added. (ANI)