Ashton Agar’s back spasms could be worse than first thought, with the spinner missing Perth Scorchers’ clash against Sydney Thunder.
The left-armer left the field after just one over at Adelaide Oval in Perth’s New Year’s Eve victory over the Strikers, and despite being given until the last hour before the match to prove his fitness, came up short on Friday.
It means Matthew Spoors has been recalled for his second match having faced Melbourne Renegades with aplomb at Marvel Stadium in December.
The leg spinner contributed 29 runs in Melbourne on a tricky pitch and abysmal outfield, but his one over did go for 15. English international Jacob Bethell took a liking to his shortish length.
Matthew Kelly also returns to the XI, with Jhye Richardson called back to Test duties in Sydney.
Andrew Tye will get the chance for redemption after a poor night against Adelaide.
Finn Allen and Matt Hurst will get the first look at a fresh Optus Stadium deck after Thunder skipper and retired Test star David Warner won the bat flip and chose to bowl.
A green tinge has been left on the surface.
The Scorchers will also square off with former teammate Cameron Bancroft for the first time this season when he opens alongside Warner.
Players from both sides met for a bare-foot circle ahead of the bat flip as part of the Scorchers’ annual Aboriginal match that will feature a celebration, including a light show, during the innings break.
After a wash-out in Coffs Harbour in the contest between Sydney Sixers and Brisbane Heat, a win for the Scorchers would see the five-time champions move to within a single point of top spot on the ladder with just four home-and-away fixtures remaining.
Content Source: www.perthnow.com.au