Maxwell ruled out of New Zealand T20s with fractured forearm

SYDNEY: Australia suffered a major setback ahead of their Twenty20 series in New Zealand as veteran all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has been ruled out after fracturing his forearm in training.

The 36-year-old sustained the injury when struck on the wrist while bowling in the nets and will return home to consult a specialist, Cricket Australia confirmed on Tuesday.

Maxwell, who played a pivotal role in last month’s T20 series win over South Africa with an unbeaten half-century, will miss all three matches against the Black Caps scheduled at Mount Maunganui’s Bay Oval on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.

In his absence, batter-wicketkeeper Josh Philippe has been called up as a replacement. Philippe, a consistent performer in the Big Bash League, recently impressed on Australia ‘A’s tour of India, where he was named player of the series.

Australia will now rely on Philippe to bolster their batting as they face a tough challenge against New Zealand in their own backyard.